YAP Supports LGBTQ+ Families
Are you an LGBTQ+ Youth who is facing challenges, and in need of support, as you navigate your sexual identity, gender identity or gender expression? We know it’s not always easy to know where to go for help or to ask for it. The Youth Acceptance Program (YAP) is here for you.
YAP also provides resources and support for parents/caregivers of LGBTQ+ Youth, as well as professionals working with Youth and their families.
The Youth Acceptance Program provides a safe and caring space for youth facing challenges with sexual & gender identity and/or expression, as well as parents & caregivers learning to process their feelings around understanding their child’s sexual orientation or gender identity.
This program is for anyone – no need to be involved in the child welfare or foster/adoptive community. The focus is compassion, not comprehension. YAP is here to meet youth and caregivers wherever they are and is completely free of charge. For youth aged 8-24 or for families with youth aged 8-24.
Tailored Support for Youths, Caregivers, and Professionals
I'm a Youth
Are you a youth identifying as LGBTQ+ or questioning your sexual orientation, gender identify, or gender expression, and want support? Click here to connect with us.
The YAP program is confidential and not just for youth who are already out as LGBTQ+
I'm a Caregiver
If you are a caregiver of a youth identifying as LGBTQ+ or have questions about your youth’s sexual orientation, gender identify or gender expression, and want support, click here for resources and to connect with someone in the Youth Acceptance Program.
YAP is here to help you understand confusing terminology and concepts, creating a safer and more stable family environment. We’re here to answer any questions, big or small.
I'm a Professional
Professionals are sometimes made aware of a youth identifying as LGBTQ+, or caregiver with a youth who have questions or need support. If so, please click here to connect with the Youth Acceptance Program
YAP is a best practice model, based on research of the harmful effects when a youth is rejected and they do not feel accepted by a caregiver. It is designed to work both with families of children already in, or at risk of entering, the child welfare system due to family stress resulting from their child’s sexual orientation, gender identity or expression. The YAP intervention is designed to increase understanding of LGBTQ+ children among parents/caregivers, foster parents, extended family members, social workers and/or congregate care staff involved in a child’s care. This model is responsive to families’ experiences within their own culture, religion, and race.
YAP's Real World Impact
Teens who perceived parent support regarding gender identity were 93% less likely to attempt suicide.
100% of youth served by YAP showed an increase in overall functioning.
100% of youth who had been engaging in self-harm behaviors were no longer doing so at the conclusion of YAP services.