There are 3 general types of supports available to LGBT youth:

1) Community-based organizations host LGBT youth support programs. Wildflower is a strong advocate of creating community-based supports in existing youth-service organizations such as local YMCA's, Boys/Girls Clubs, Community Centers and other natural spaces for youth to go.

2) Volunteers develop an independent support program. There are many volunteer-run support programs throughout the United States...and many new programs pop up each year. These programs tend to be less stable than an organization-based program because of the lack of structure, resources and community support. However, this is a viable option for communities that do not have any forms of support and would like to start somewhere!

3) Schools create gay/straight alliances or on/off-site support programs

a) these can be through the counseling department during school hours

b) or as a "club" similar to other after-school groups GLSEN: is the leading national organization which focuses on school issues and can provide information about creating supportive spaces in school environments. GLSEN

Wildflower offers experience and resources to those embarking on the development of new support groups. Our Support Group Development Team has had experience developing and maintaining 7 different support programs and providing consulting services for many, many more.