We advocate for LGBTQ youth so they can seize each day and prepare for the future.

We advocate for LGBTQ youth so they can seize each day and prepare for the future.

Through youth leadership, SMYAL creates opportunities for LGBTQ youth to build self-confidence, develop critical life skills, and engage their peers and community through service and advocacy.
Through youth leadership, SMYAL creates opportunities for LGBTQ youth to build self-confidence, develop critical life skills, and engage their peers and community through service and advocacy.

Youth Services

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Need inspiration for your next GSA campaign? On the hunt for scholarships? We’ve got your back.

Giving Back

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From volunteering to donations, the opportunities to support LGBTQ youth are endless.

Housing

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LGBTQ youth deserve a place to live, learn, and grow. That’s why our transitional housing program includes mental health services, networking, mentorship, and more

Empower LGBTQ Youth to Thrive

With 40% of youth experiencing homelessness identifying as LGBTQ, our mission has never been more clear. From transitional housing to leadership development, SMYAL serves at-risk youth as they overcome the challenges associated with their identity. Our services are made possible by the generous contributions of our community. Help SMYAL continue to make a difference in the lives of LGBTQ youth.

Upcoming Event

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 | MARRIOTT MARQUIS | 10:30 AM

 

SMYAL’s 40th Anniversary Fall Brunch

Tickets are now on sale to join us at SMYAL’s Fall Brunch in celebration of our 40th Anniversary!

SMYAL’s premier supporter event, the annual Fall Brunch, includes a cocktail reception featuring a fabulous silent auction, a three-course brunch, and a chance to hear from some of our community’s most inspiring leaders.

Every year, the Fall Brunch brings together LGBTQ+ and allied community members, friends, and families in support of the inspirational youth SMYAL works with every day.

SMYAL Social Media

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SMYAL

SMYAL

SMYAL supports and empowers LGBTQ+ youth ages 6-24.

5 days ago

SMYAL
📅 WEEKLY DROP-IN PROGRAMS FOR MAY 15 - 18Tuesday 5/28, Drop-In Programs for Ages 13-17Thursday 5/30, 5-7 pm: Virtual Drop-In Programs on Discord for Ages 13-17Friday 5/31, 4-7 pm: Special Event for Ages 13-24Saturday 6/1, 10 - 11:30 am, Little SMYALS In-Person for Ages 6-9Saturday 6/1, 12 - 1:30 pm, Little SMYALS In-Person for Ages 13-24Learn more and join our programs for queer + trans youth ages 6-24 at SMYAL.org/schedule or click on the links in our bio! ... See MoreSee Less
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6 days ago

SMYAL
#MentalHealthAwarnessMonth is a fundamental time for our communities to come together to talk about mental and behavioral health. Our organization is proud to support and empower LGBTQ+ youth through affirming programs and services, including cost-free mental health care. In the past year, with support from a behavioral health grant from CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield, SMYAL's Clinical Services Department has provided over 100 youth and their families with affirming mental health counseling. ... See MoreSee Less
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2 weeks ago

SMYAL
Once again we're celebrating Pride in the 202 with the release of Pride Pils! Right Proper Brewing Company is hosting the Pride Pils Launch Party on Wednesday, May 29, 5 - 8 PM.The 2024 design has been created and donated by the talented Chord Bezerra of District CO/OP.Attendance is "FREE" but please RSVP via the Eventbrite. As always, DC Brau Right Proper Brewing Company and Red Bear Brewing Co. will be donating all profit from the sale of this year's Pride Pils to their non-profit partners, including SMYAL and The Blade Foundation.More information about the can at PridePils.com. You can find the link to RSVP in our bio! ... See MoreSee Less
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2 weeks ago

SMYAL
📅 WEEKLY DROP-IN PROGRAMS FOR MAY 20 - 24Monday 5/20, 8-10 pm: Special Programs for Ages 13-24Tuesday 5/21, 4-7 pm: Drop-In Programs for Ages 18-24Wednesday 5/22, 5:30-6:30 pm, Little SMYALS Virtual for Ages 10-13Thursday 5/23, 5-7 pm: Virtual Drop-In Programs on Discord for Ages 18-24Friday 5/24, 4-7 pm: Drop-In Programs for Ages 18-24Learn more and join our programs for queer + trans youth ages 6-24 at SMYAL.org/schedule or click on the links in our bio! ... See MoreSee Less
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2 weeks ago

SMYAL
This Mental Health Awareness Month, we want to give a special thank you to the Kiwanis Club of Washington, D.C. for their support in launching and growing SMYAL's Clinical Services department. Thanks to them, we can keep our affirming therapy completely cost-free for LGBTQ+ youth and their loved ones. ... See MoreSee Less
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3 weeks ago

SMYAL
a few magical moments✨ from Pride Prom DMV. Thank you @arwenclemansphoto for the great pics! Check the link in our bio to see more amazing photos from the amazing evening! ... See MoreSee Less
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