Telling the stories of those who are discriminated against and marginalized gives power to the young people we serve. LGBTQ youth are one group who deserve to have their stories told, as many—if not all—face some level of discrimination. It is difficult for gender and sexual minorities to access essential resources like housing, healthcare, and employment. Although the percentage of LGBTQ youth in the US is between 5-7%, approximately 40% of youth experiencing homelessness identify as LGBTQ.
For over 25 years, Jacksonville Area Sexual Minority Youth Network (JASMYN) has worked tirelessly to help these LGBTQ youth tell their stories and get them into homes. Their mission is to “support and empower LGBTQ young people by creating safe space, providing health and wholeness services and offering youth development opportunities.” By partnering with community organizations across Northeast Florida, they have successfully served thousands of youth ages 13-29.
Read the full case study below.