ALSO Youth

In 1992, a group of passionate individuals came together in response to alarming statistics about the high rates of suicide among gay and lesbian teens. This dedication gave rise to ALSO Youth, a vital organization that has been a lifeline for our community ever since. By partnering with local groups like PFLAG, Planned Parenthood, and YMCA Youth and Family Services, we started by providing crucial support groups for Sarasota area youth.

In 2023, we opened a second Youth Center in Manatee County while we continued our programs and services simoltaneously at our Sarasota Center. Our location in Sarasota has been a major part of our history, as it became home to our organization about twenty years ago. In October of 2024, we were forced to indefinitely close our Sarasota Center due to damage sustained during Hurricane Milton. As a result, we have shifted our programs and operations to our Manatee Center in Bradenton.  

A survey from The Trevor Project highlighted a pressing need: 65% of LGBTQ+ young people in Florida were seeking mental health care but couldn't access it. We recognize the critical gap in services, and we are committed to addressing it. Each month, we provide over 70 free mental health counseling sessions—available in-person or virtually, and without the need for insurance. This support extends not only to LGBTQ+ youth but also to their families, ensuring that everyone has access to the care they need. 

Over the years, we’ve expanded our mission to ensure that every young person feels safe, supported, and empowered. In the last few years, we have created an annual summer camp, carried on the tradition of our annual Prom, created a Rainbow Library for our entire community to gain access to literature that celebrates diversity, and so much more. 

As we celebrate 32 years of service, we know our work is far from finished. The age range of youth we serve and our list of services have expanded, and the demand for mental health support continues to grow. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of countless young people. We invite you to join us in this important mission. Your generous donation will help us sustain and expand our vital services, ensuring that LGBTQ+ youth receive the mental health care, community building, and support they deserve. Together, we can create a brighter future for our community. 

Thank you for standing with us.