John,

The school year has finally kicked off in most of the country, but for LGBTQ+ students, this year looks a bit different in many states – the national and local attacks on DEI programs have led to many schools and universities shutting down their LGBTQ+ programs and student groups, which are a critical lifeline for queer young folks to support one another at school. We know many young people are mourning the loss of these spaces, and we're here to help bridge the gap: now, student groups, grassroots groups, community-based organizations, or individuals can apply for a $1,000 grant to facilitate programs and projects for LGBTQ+ young people.

Whether you want to start an all-gender recreational sports team at your high school, facilitate a wellness group for LGBTQ+ college students, or something else entirely, we want to support you with a $1,000 grant to facilitate bringing LGBTQ+ students together. Click here to submit your application or get more information on the grants program – the deadline to apply is October 1st.

Our team spends a lot of time thinking about how to improve the lived experiences of young queer and trans people across the country in this relentless political era. Our Trans Youth Emergency Project (TYEP) helps families of transgender youth living in states with bans on gender-affirming care continue to access the healthcare they need to thrive, but we know thriving requires support beyond access to gender-affirming healthcare. It also means learning in schools where they are safe, affirmed, and celebrated. 

As a Patient Navigator for TYEP and a member of the Supportive Schools team, I hear directly from parents about what their kid's lives are like in their communities – and a lot of that has to do with how their schools are treating them, and the support systems in place for LGBTQ+ youth where they live. By combining the urgent support of TYEP with the long-term vision of Supportive Schools, this program invests in both immediate relief and the creation of joyful, community-centered environments where young people and their families can flourish.

If you are organizing or supporting LGBTQ+ youth in your community, these grants are for you. Apply today and please forward this email along to anyone who would benefit from these grants, too.

Organizations and individuals of all ages in the 27 states with gender-affirming care bans are encouraged to apply for a grant. Funds must be distributed to organizations or individuals over the age of 18, so youth-led projects will need an organizational sponsor or a trusted adult. In addition to receiving funding, successful applicants will be able to seek technical assistance and project support from our staff. If you have any questions, please feel free to email my colleague Gracey Taylor at [email protected].

Thanks for all you do to help make our schools warmer, more welcoming places for our LGBTQ+ youth to thrive.

With gratitude,
Van Bailey, Ed.D. 
They/Them 
Family Support Manager
Campaign for Southern Equality