Resources for LGBTQ+ Youth and Adults

Lawmakers in state houses across the country continue advancing a record-breaking number of anti-LGBTQ+ bills in state legislatures, and this weaponization of public policy has been driven by extremists that have a long history in working to oppress the existence and rights of LGBTQ+ people. Now more than ever, folks who identify as LGBTQ+ may need help. Boston Tutoring Services has put together a list of resources, and we hope they will find those in need.

The Trevor Project

The Trevor Project is the leading suicide prevention and crisis intervention nonprofit organization for LGBTQ+ young people, providing information and support to LGBTQ+ young people 24/7, all year round. Through legislation, litigation, and public education, The Trevor Project advocates for policies that help prevent suicide among LGBTQ+ young people. This includes advancing policy reforms at the federal, state, and local level to address factors that place them at a significantly higher risk of suicide.

Safe Homes MA

Safe Homes is a program supporting LGBTQIA+ young people (and their straight allies) between the ages of 14 and 23. The group is led by youth peer leaders, professional staff, and volunteers who offer support, resources, and opportunities for socialization in a safe and nurturing environment. Safe Homes offers two locations, Safe Homes Worcester and Safe Homes North, as well as hosting virtual drop-ins to reach youth, no matter where they are located. Safe Homes strives to offer support to diverse communities throughout Central Massachusetts.

MASSBATS

BATS is a support group for trans and non-binary people who are 18+ and living in and around the Boston area. If you are looking for support in understanding your gender identity, help with coming out or transitioning, emotional support, a sense of community, a place where you belong, or just to meet relatable people, BATS is one of the best resources. Anybody who identifies as trans (transgender, transsexual, non-binary, genderqueer, genderfluid, agender, bigender, pangender, intersex, etc…) or who is sincerely questioning their gender identity is welcome.

GLSEN (MA Chapter)

GLSEN Massachusetts is a chapter of GLSEN (Gay, Lesbian, and Straight Education Network), a national organization fighting for every student’s right to a safe, supportive education. GLSEN MA is a grassroots initiative, working locally in our community to ensure safe schools for all students, regardless of sexual orientation and gender identity. There are 43 Chapters around the country doing this important work. Our chapter supports students and educators locally, organizes around LGBTQ+-affirming public policy, plans teacher trainings, and hosts events for students, educators, parents, and allies. Chapters like ours play an important role in bringing GLSEN’s programs and visions to right where we live, work, and learn.

GLASS (LGBTQ+ Adolescent Social Services)

GLASS provides a continuum of services to LGBTQ+ youth of color and their allies in the Greater Boston area. As a leader in LGBTQ+ youth services, they also provide education and consultation to other providers and community organizations. Their continuum of services model aims to address a young person’s immediate needs, equip them with tools to make healthy decisions and live fulfilling lives, and help create communities in which they can thrive. For more information, visit their website.

Greater Boston PFLAG

All of Greater Boston PFLAG’s work is driven by its vision of a world in which LGBTQ individuals are safe, supported, included, and equal in their families, in their communities, and in society. PFLAG stands for “Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays.” PFLAG is an organization of LGBTQ+ people, parents, families, and allies who work together to create an equitable and inclusive world. They have hundreds of chapters from coast to coast who are leading with love to support families, educate allies, and advocate for just, equitable, and inclusive legislation and policies. Since their founding in 1973, PFLAG works every day to ensure LGBTQ+ people everywhere are safe, celebrated, empowered and loved. They also have many more great resources on their website.

Allison Green
Boston Tutoring Services