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 2023 Is Near

Models of Pride is back for its 31st year with a completely refreshed event! We’re transforming what has been an incredible LGBTQ+ youth conference into a celebratory festival of love, acceptance, and joy! Celebrating 31 years of success, the new Models of Pride Festival will bring us into a new world of fun with an all-new venue, exciting and interactive activities, dancing and music from awesome DJ’s, and heartwarming performances! This festival will also feature Chill Lounges, a Resource, College, and Job Fair, carnival games, delicious food trucks, and more—for free! Youth ages 24 and younger and their friends and families are invited to attend.