What We Do
Although we recently incorporated, YESS has been operating as Youth Empowerment Support & Safety since March 2022, and prior to that we were called Together for Youth.
YESS provides one-to-one support to LGBTAI2SA youth and their related families or caregiver/confidant adults. Our staff person is available 24/7 via phone, text, various social media, along with one-to-one support and community education.
We respond to requests for educational presentations with community groups, churches, employee groups, and, really, anyone who asks.
We create or work with already established groups in schools, churches, and community spaces to facilitate a regular safe space in school for LGBTQI2SA students.
We table at events like Earth Fest, Community Resource Fairs, Youth Mental Health Night, and other community events.
We moderate a safe, secure, private social media forum for LGBTQI2SA youth and allies for general discussion and social connection.
We also facilitate a weekly online support group via Zoom for youth and allies.
We facilitate youth attendance at LGBTQI2SA conferences, LGBTQI2SA-specific wilderness experiences, and affinity events in the area
We make referrals for mental health services as well as medical services, housing needs, in-school support, and transportation.
