What We Do
Programs.
Programs at IYG revolves around building community, developing leadership qualities, and increasing self-esteem and self-efficacy. Through this programs, our staff hopes to lessen the impact of stressors most commonly faced by LGBTQ+ youth.
Just a few of our regular programs include:
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Support and discussion groups
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Arts and crafts
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Sexual health education
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STI/HIV testing
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Educational support
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Rapid rehousing (Project Prism)
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Affinity groups
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Risk prevention
In addition to scheduled programs, youth also have the option of hanging out with like-minded peers! Board games, videogames, karaoke, arts and crafts, and dancing are just a handful of common activities.
Case Management.
One of the most important resources we offer to the youth is case management. Our case managers interview and evaluate youth to complete intakes and assessments. This helps to determine at-risk youth and the additional support they require such as connecting them to services provided by partner organizations for mental health, housing, and legal assistance. For youth experiencing homelessness, our case managers help them to navigate the system and obtain copies of their social security cards, state identification, and birth certificates. Many parents withhold these documents when they throw their child out of the family home. Without these documents, it is nearly impossible for youth to apply for services, enroll in school, apply for a job, or apply for the High School Equivalency exam.
Basic Needs.
One in four LGBTQ+ youth that comes out to their family is kicked out of their home. Many youth “couch surf,” stay with family/friends, or end up living on the street.
IYG offers a plethora of resources for these youth including:
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Laundry
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Shower
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Food pantry
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Rapid rehousing assistance
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Cleaning products
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Hygiene products
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Clothing
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Transportation assistance
IYG also connects youth to services provided by partnering organizations for housing, medical/mental health, educational resources, and legal assistance.
Indiana GSA Network.
IYG's Indiana GSA Network provides support to Gender and Sexuality Alliances (GSA) and Diversity clubs in middle and high schools across the state. Support comes in the form of information, community, skill-building resources, regional and state-wide events, and annual site visits. IYG also helps student leaders and faculty advisors to startup, develop, and maintain GSAs in their own schools, as well as LGBTQ+ competency education opportunities for teachers and school staff.
PARENTS.
IYG offers education and support to parents/guardians, family, and other caring adults. Meetups, online support, and both one-on-one and family counseling sessions are all available!