Youth who identify as LGBTQIA2S+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer or Questioning, Intersex, Asexual, Two-Spirit, and other gender and sexual identities) face unique challenges, often systemic, that can lead to homelessness or make them feel left with no other choice but to running away for their safety and well-being. Understanding these challenges and knowing how to provide support can make a significant difference in their lives.
LGBTQIA2S+ youth are disproportionately affected by homelessness. According to the True Colors Fund, up to 40% of homeless youth identify as LGBTQIA2S+. These young people may face rejection from their families, discrimination in housing and employment, and a lack of supportive resources. This environment of rejection and discrimination can lead to mental health issues, substance abuse, and a higher risk of victimization on the streets.
Ways Adults Can Be Supportive:
Use Their Preferred Pronouns and Names
Using a youth’s preferred pronouns and chosen name is one of the simplest yet most powerful ways to show respect and support. This practice validates their identity and shows that you acknowledge and accept them for who they are.
Research has shown that using a young person’s chosen name and pronouns can significantly reduce the risk of depression and suicide. It creates a sense of belonging and affirmation, which is crucial for their mental well-being.
Educate Yourself and Others
Take the initiative to learn about LGBTQIA2S+ identities and issues. This includes understanding the terminology, the challenges they face, and the specific needs they may have.
Being informed allows you to provide more effective support. It also helps you to challenge misinformation and prejudice when you see it, creating a more inclusive environment for everyone.
Provide Safe and Affirming Spaces
Create or support spaces where LGBTQIA2S+ youth feel safe and accepted. This could be through community centers, support groups, or simply being a trusted adult they can turn to.
Safe spaces provide a refuge from the hostility they might face elsewhere. They offer a place where youth can express themselves freely and connect with peers who understand their experiences.
Listen and Validate Their Experiences
Sometimes the best support you can offer is simply to listen. Allow LGBTQIA2S+ youth to share their stories and feelings without judgment or interruption. Validate their experiences by acknowledging their feelings and the reality of their challenges.
Our Crisis Services team regularly receive calls, texts and chats from young people who feel like they have no one they can trust or that will believe what they’re going through. Listening and validation show that you care and that their experiences matter. It helps build trust and can provide them with the emotional support they need to navigate their difficulties.
Advocate for Their Rights
Stand up for LGBTQIA2S+ youth in your community. Remember, voting in local elections is often the most effective way to make change in your community. This can involve advocating for inclusive policies in schools, supporting anti-discrimination laws, or participating in awareness campaigns.
Advocacy helps create systemic changes that can protect and uplift LGBTQIA2S+ youth. It shows them that they have allies who are willing to fight for their rights and well-being
Connect Them with Resources
Ensure that LGBTQIA2S+ youth have access to resources such as mental health services, housing support, and legal aid. Organizations like the National Runaway Safeline, The Trevor Project, and local LGBTQIA2S+ centers can offer vital support.
Access to resources can make a significant difference in their ability to navigate crises and find stability. It empowers them to take control of their situation with the support they need.
The National Runaway Safeline is available 24/7 for all youth regardless of their identity or orientation. We’re proud to serve as a safe, confidential, non-judgmental and non-directive space for youth to talk through their concerns and struggles, and even get referrals to local resources if necessary. Together, our combined support can be the key to helping them feel valued, accepted, and hopeful for the future.
Supporting Youth Who Identify as LGBTQIA2S+
Youth who identify as LGBTQIA2S+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer or Questioning, Intersex, Asexual, Two-Spirit, and other gender and sexual identities) face unique challenges, often systemic, that can lead to homelessness or make them feel left with no other choice but to running away for their safety and well-being. Understanding these challenges and knowing how to provide support can make a significant difference in their lives.
LGBTQIA2S+ youth are disproportionately affected by homelessness. According to the True Colors Fund, up to 40% of homeless youth identify as LGBTQIA2S+. These young people may face rejection from their families, discrimination in housing and employment, and a lack of supportive resources. This environment of rejection and discrimination can lead to mental health issues, substance abuse, and a higher risk of victimization on the streets.
April 2024 Volunteer of the Month
The National Runaway Safeline (NRS) is proud to honor Amanda Sun as our Volunteer of the Month for a second time. Amanda began her journey with NRS in early 2021 as a 17-year-old in East Brunswick, New Jersey, with a mission to make a difference in the lives of young people facing uncertainty. Since then, Amanda has not only continued her invaluable contributions to NRS but has also embarked on her academic journey as a freshman at Brown University.
March 2024 Volunteer of the Month
We’re excited to spotlight Nissa Petrewski, who has been voted as National Runaway Safeline’s Volunteer of the Month for March 2024. This is Nissa’s second time receiving this acknowledgement from the NRS Team, initially being celebrated in April of 2022.
Nissa’s was introduced to NRS at the Chicago Volunteer Expo hosted at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum. She was immediately drawn to the details of the organization’s training and preparation for volunteers. Inspired, she decided to complete training and take an active role on NRS’s front lines.
February 2024 Volunteer of the Month
Debby Shen’s commitment to helping others shines brightly through her volunteer work at the National Runaway Safeline (NRS). Originally from Ohio and now residing in Chicago, Debby began volunteering in 2019, just before the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Luckily, Debby was able to complete training and spend around 6 months taking crisis contact. As mounting challenges with COVID-19 caused organizations around the world to move to a fully-remove model, NRS was forced to temporarily pause its volunteer program. As soon as the program returned, Debby was among the first volunteers to return!
