LGBTQ+ Inclusion Initiative

 

Young people thrive when they feel a sense of belonging.

 

Boys & Girls Clubs are committed to ensuring equity and inclusion for all young people.

Our Clubs work to offer a safe, positive environment for youth, staff and families of all sexual orientations, gender identities and gender expressions. It's part of our broader mission to ensure every young person has access to quality out-of-school time opportunities where they are physically and emotionally safe and build healthy habits and the skills they need on their path to a great future.

 

4 in 10 LGBTQ+ youth (42%) say the community in which they live is not accepting of LGBTQ+ people.

Human Rights Campaign

 

 

59% of LGBTQ+ students felt unsafe at school because of their sexual orientation.

GLSEN National School Climate Survey

 

 

 

One accepting adult can reduce the risk of a suicide attempt by 40% in LGBTQ+ youth.

The Trevor Project

 

 

“I can come here and really be who I am.  At home there’s always a filter but here there isn’t. People here are more accepting than where I typically am for most of my day. From my perspective it seems that it’s the only accepting place.”

- Casper, BGC Wisconsin

 

Our Commitment to Inclusion

We believe every kid has what it takes. The mission and core beliefs of Boys & Girls Clubs fuel our commitment to promoting safe, positive and inclusive environments for all. Boys & Girls Clubs of America supports all youth and teens – of every race, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, ability, socio-economic status, and religion – in reaching their full potential.