Back in May, GoodMatch teamed up with seven (7) Austin, Texas-based nonprofits to celebrate the launch of our App. At GoodMatch, we believe in the power of community-driven nonprofits and their ability to create lasting grassroots change. Over the next few weeks, we will be re-introducing you to the nonprofits that serve our city with integrity and forward-thinking!

Up next is Out Youth Austin!

For 31 years, Out Youth has been a safe space for young people of all gender identities and sexual orientations to be themselves. Out Youth provides an array of services and programs within the community to promote the educational, emotional, physical, mental, and social development of LGBTQIA+ youth. This includes support for families, counselling, transgender wellness, and a drop-in center.

All of Out Youth’s innovate programs are designed to provide LGBTQIA+ youth and their allies with the opportunities to prepare for successful futures by helping their participants identify and cultivate peer support networks, develop positive self-esteem, and work towards a productive and happy adulthood. As if Out Youth couldn’t get any more impressive; according to Out Youth, “our programs and services also have the unique distinction of being youth-directed. The youth have a significant influence over the topics we cover in our educational programming, and they guide the discussion topics in our facilitated discussion circles.”

By taking the time to learn more about and embrace the LGBTQIA+ youth can offer a better future to those who are struggling, even shaping a whole new positive outlook on their individual identity. Out Youth relies on volunteers and donations to continue thriving and helping young people in Austin, making the kindness of the community crucial to their existence.

If you’d like to make a difference in the future of the Austin LGBTQIA+ youth, please consider attending a training, host a fundraiser, or attend an event!