Hello John,

When It Gets Better started as one video on YouTube [[link removed]], it was in response to a rash of suicides that claimed the lives of several LGBTQ+ or perceived to be queer youth. The message behind that video and the 70,000+ to follow was clear — no matter how difficult things may be, it can get better.

Fourteen years later, we continue to be committed to reaching LGBTQ+ youth early, before they’re in crisis. We work to help build their confidence and self-worth, connecting them to their peers and providing the tools and resources they need to navigate their sexual orientation and/or gender identity journey.

In a world where 73% of Gen-Zers say they feel alone some of (or all of) the time, we counter the harmful social narrative that seeks to dehumanize LGBTQ+ youth by fostering connections and meaningful relationships. We engage with young people early to help strengthen their confidence and sense of self.

Our programs and initiatives are designed to give LGBTQ+ youth a sense of power and a voice for their future — to create the change they want to see in the world. From It Gets Better funded grant projects [[link removed]] actively changing school environments for LGBTQ+ students to our Youth Voices mentorship [[link removed]] and leadership program, we are preparing young people to advocate for their community and peers today so that they’re better equipped to navigate the world around them.

This National Suicide Prevention Week, let us all continue to fight for a future [[link removed]] in which LGBTQ+ youth are not just surviving but thriving. We have a collective responsibility to this next generation of LGBTQ+ leaders — to remind them how far we’ve come and how far we can still go, together.

Thank you for helping us make it better for all LGBTQ+ youth. [[link removed]] For more information on critical suicide and crisis prevention organizations serving the LGBTQ+ community, visit ItGetsBetter.org/GetHelp [[link removed]].

Ross W. von Metzke

Senior Director, Communications & PR

It Gets Better

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The It Gets Better Project is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a mission to uplift, empower, and connect lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer youth around the globe. All contributions are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.

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