Youth & Schools
LGBTQ+ Students & Allies

LGBTQ+ Students & Allies

Our in-school programs help LGBTQ+ youth create communities and relationships, feel safe at school, and develop the skills they need to build healthy and complete lives.

Community Action Network: Making Schools Safer for LGBTQ+ Students

The Need

Now—more than ever in recent memory—schools have become a battleground for LGBTQ+ students, teachers, and allies. Whether it's the misinformation spread about our community or the demonization of trans youth, there's an urgent need for accepting, safe spaces for queer and trans youth. Even before this heightened moment in society, LGBTQ+ youth reported isolation, harassment at school, and a lack of safe spaces—and were more likely than their non-LGBTQ+ peers to misuse alcohol and substances.

How We Work

CAN works with GSA and LGBTQ clubs on school campuses to support middle and high school students. We help both students and advisors strengthen their school clubs by providing tools on sustainability and recruitment, meeting formats and agendas, club connectivity, and more.

Our Impact

Created in 2013, CAN groups have worked in more than 75 schools, spreading awareness and conducting LGBTQ+ competency trainings and leadership workshops for LGBTQ+ and ally youth.

Student Support

Students are supported by peer leaders, made up of youth ages 18 to 24. These leaders are trained in facilitation skills to build community and create social change, thereby supporting students on their campuses.

Models of Pride 2024 Is Here!

Join hundreds of LGBTQ+ youth and their allies at this year’s 32nd annual Models of Pride Summit! Following the wildly successful event in 2023 with Dylan Mulvaney, Hayley Kiyoko and Ruba, we have transformed what has been an incredible and in its inception, a much needed LGBTQ+ youth conference, into a celebratory event of love, acceptance and joy! Celebrating 32 years of success, the new Models of Pride Summit will bring us into a new world of fun with an all new venue, exciting and interactive activities, dancing and music and heart stopping performances! This summit will also include Chill Lounges, a Resource, College, and Job Fair, carnival games, delicious food, and more – all FOR FREE! All LGBTQ+ youth ages 24 and younger and their allies, friends, and families are invited to attend.