Analysis of GLBTQ Youth Community-Based Programs in the United States

Abstract

Gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and queer/questioning (GLBTQ) youth face oppression despite some increases in cultural support for GLBTQ individuals. Research has revealed the psychological and social distress associated with oppression and the benefits of peer social support programs. This study was conducted to analyze the types and frequency of services, age of participants, and organizational structures of the 116 GLBTQ community-based programs operating in the United States. Using an Internet survey, information from 61 of the programs was secured. The results revealed the community-based youth programs provide critical and unique programs and services that can promote the mental and physical health of GLBTQ youth.

What does it mean to be a successful adult? Exploring perceptions of the transition into adulthood among LGBTQ emerging adults in a community-based service context

“…Thus, LGBTQ young people need to look to their own communities for positive role models. The emergence of communitybased LGBTQ youth-serving groups and organizations has resulted in more than 100 organizations of varying sizes and structures that serve LGBTQ youths and young adults across the United States (Allen, Hammack, & Himes, 2012). These organizations serve as LGBTQ-centric spaces where youths can experience empowerment in the face of discrimination (Gamarel, Walker, Rivera, & Golub, 2014) through social and peer support (Asakura, 2010).…”

Barriers to involvement in nonmetropolitan LGBTQ organizations

“…These organizations may be a community-level factor that can promote resilience by providing resources and support to assist LGBTQ people to cope with minority stress (Meyer, 2003). Research on LGBTQ organizations has been primarily descriptive, reporting on the structure of community-based LGBTQ organizations and the types of programs and services they offer (e.g., Allen, Hammack, & Himes, 2012;Centerlink & MAP, 2014). Only one known study has examined the benefits of LGBTQ organizational involvement.…”

Health and Well-Being in Emerging Adults’ Same-Sex Relationships

“…In the past, we’ve relied on LGBT community centers and organizations such LGBT student unions to help provide safe spaces though which we can address these concerns (e.g., Allen, Hammack, & Himes, 2012; Russell, Muraco, Subramaniam, & Laub, 2009; Toomey, Ryan, Diaz, & Russell, 2011). However, given the suggested decentralizing of sexual identities in young peoples’ lives (Savin-Williams, 2005), and the greater acceptance of sexual minorities in mainstream institutions, these kinds of LGBT specialized spaces, which are indeed very separate spaces, may not be sufficient to address relationship issues.…”