YES Institute

For over 27 years, YES Institute has served numerous communities through open, action-oriented dialogues and prevention education for parents and youth. We are accredited professional development trainers for Early Learning and K-12 teachers, and continuing education providers for licensed mental health and medical professionals on gay and transgender youth and family equity and inclusion.

South Florida high school students who are stigmatized or rejected due to their sexual orientation or gender identity, are at high risk of self-harm:
• 6% of heterosexual youth make a suicide attempt;
• 24% of gay, lesbian, and bisexual youth make a suicide attempt;
• 31% of transgender youth make a suicide attempt.

Our impact has expanded through relationships with agencies and organizations across North and South America. Using a culturally responsive approach, we work with local leaders to develop and implement action plans that address local community needs and produce immediate and long-term outcomes. Our work is available to all youth and families in our community, including HIV+ people, Black and Latinx youth, and Spanish-speaking families.

2023 Impacts Thus Far 

4,970 people including students, parents, and professionals have
attended 151 education sessions delivered virtually and in- person, while responding to a 61% increase of intake calls for mental health, peer and family support, and medical referrals, compared to the first half of 2022.