Over the past three years, I’ve done everything I possibly can throughout Center Youth, including participating in three different internships and the LGBTQ Youth Summer Camp, which I attended first as a camper and then grew to become a Family Group Leader. I am super grateful to be forming relationships with people I call family.

The LGBTQ Youth Summer Camp is incredibly special to me. It was the first place where I found I could fully be myself. Each morning, every camper receives appreciation from the group—it’s really beautiful because we get to celebrate something specific about us that does not usually get recognized by the outside world. We talk about uplifting and empowering the community, what changes we can effect and how to understand our history. Being able to connect with people whose experiences are so similar and yet so different is priceless.

I’m so grateful for the people who make Camp possible through their support. For a group of kids to be ourselves for a full week is a special environment. Being a part of the Center Youth community has helped me not only to open up, but also to find the people who will be there for me for the rest of my life.

Happy Holidays!
Katia

We’re excited to share that two dedicated donors who believe in the value of The Center’s life-saving programs have issued a challenge to you. Every dollar you donate until midnight on December 31 will be matched up to $50,000. Give now to double the impact for LGBTQ young people like Katia who rely on The Center to connect with their community. Thank you!