Side by Side Our Space

Our Space creates a haven for LGBTQIA+ youth ages 13-24 to express their authentic selves and feel seen, accepted, and celebrated. This supportive environment is crucial for individuals like Kate*, a 17-year-old from Hayward. After enduring abuse, bullying, and suicidal thoughts, Kate found acceptance through Our Space and decided to transition to a female identity. Despite the rocky road with her family, Our Space youth advocate June* has been a steadfast supporter, helping Kate embrace her identity, set boundaries, self-advocate, and mentor other trans and foster youth.

Finding a safe community at Our Space has been transformative for Kate. Unlike other support groups, Our Space welcomed her with open arms, making her feel accepted and part of a family. Kate has also benefited from the clothing closet at Our Space, which has helped her during her transition. With the support of a teacher and the resources at Our Space, Kate has been able to step into her feminine identity and express herself through fashion.

We invite you to join us in making a difference. Consider donating to Side by Side through the Give Out Day campaign. Your dollars provide essential services to LGBTQIA+ youth, making a lasting impact on their lives.

Together, we can create a nurturing environment for all youth. Thank you for your continued support and commitment to fostering positive change.

*Names have been changed to protect the privacy of the client and clinician.

More About Our Space

For many young people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and/or questioning, it can feel like no place is safe. LGBTQIA+ young people experience significantly higher rates of harassment and abuse – as well as poverty, homelessness, and involvement in the child welfare and juvenile justice systems – than their straight peers. Our Space provides that much-needed safe space for LGBTQIA+ youth.

Comprehensive services for youth offered include:

• peer support groups in schools
• community-based mental health and case management
• inter-generational community-building activities
• paid youth leadership opportunities,
• as well as a community center with drop-in hours and a gender affirming clothing closet and food pantry.

Our Space also offers specialized support services for adult caregivers and families, and training for providers from schools, clinics, and other service providers working with LGBTQIA+ youth. The workshops for professionals deepen their understanding of LGBTQIA+ youth challenges and increase their effectiveness in addressing them.

Our Space is working to create a world where LGBTQIA+ youth are empowered to show fierce love for themselves and their community. Thank you for joining us on that journey!