Hey John

My name is Eris and I’m in my second year as a Youth Voices ambassador with the It Gets Better Project. Before coming to the It Gets Better Project, I never realized the impact of my story — that my words could move people to take action on issues I care about. Here’s how I found joy and courage in community — and how you make this all possible as a monthly donor. 

Being a Youth Voice means being a changemaker. Every student who goes through the Youth Voices program is highly motivated and accomplished in the world of advocacy. Sharing space with like-minded people in this way has encouraged me to speak up on issues I felt nervous about. It has surrounded me with an affirming and supportive network that understands all the challenges that come with this work.

Because of my story, I know for a fact it does get better. It can feel hopeless living in states that are taking away your rights, creating social environments that are discriminatory and dangerous, and being queer with no plan to live authentically.

I would know. All of this is part of my own story. Yet, through advocacy and the queer support network I found here, I have created a life filled with Black, queer, neurodivergent, nonbinary joy.

With a monthly gift to the It Gets Better Project:

• You support this nation’s next generation of queer policymakers, scientists, caregivers, revolutionaries, and more.

• You help to build a community, one that I would consider part of my chosen family.

• You allow young minds to come together and discuss how we can make a positive difference on a population that needs it most.

• You not only support the queer youth in the program; you make a worldwide impact on the queer and trans communities who see things get better because of the content, resources and programs the It Gets Better Project produces.

I could not have imagined a better introduction to working with a nonprofit and seeing my voice have a global impact. Supporters like you made it happen, and I hope you’ll keep believing in better as a monthly donor and supporting kids like me.

Thank you!