LGBTQ+ Youth
LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer) youth are overrepresented in the foster care system. These youth face serious risks and challenges. Like other young people, they need acceptance, understanding, support, and resources. It is also important for foster parents, families, and allies to have the resources needed to support LGBTQ+ youth in foster care.
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The information below provides local and national support and resources for LGBTQ youth and those who care about them. LGBTQ Resources in Maine
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Support:
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OutMaine, based in Rockland, is a nonprofit dedicated to supporting and building communities for Maine's LGTBQ+ youth.
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Portland Outright, located in Portland, is a youth-led membership organization building the power of LGBTQ+ young people in Maine (aged 14-25) through intersectional organizing for LGBTQ+, racial, and economic justice.
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MaineTransNet offers trans, ally, and questioning youth a voice in Portland and Bangor.
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Youth Guardian Services is a youth resource that offers support services to LGBTQ youth on the Internet.
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Maine Family Planning their mission is to ensure that all Maine people have access to high-quality, affordable reproductive health care, comprehensive sexual health education, and the right to control their reproductive lives.
Resources:
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Maine Family Planning Sex Education Resources The best sex education resource is Maine Family Planning’s Education Department!
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Maryville University Online: College guide; The guide explains some basic terminology used by the LGBTQ community and provides tips for choosing a college with adequate LGBTQ support. It also covers college application information and lists scholarships that are available to LGBTQ students.
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Access Lambda Legal’s “Know Your Rights” or read their “Getting Down to the Basics” guide that gives supportive information to LGBTQ youth in care.
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Advocates for Youth Advocates for Youth works alongside thousands of young people in the U.S. and around the globe as they fight for sexual health, rights, and justice.
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Gay, Lesbian, Straight Education Network (GLSEN) – Nationally, GLSEN works to ensure safe schools for ALL students, regardless of sexual orientation and gender identity. Also, visit the Southern Maine chapter webpage or the Downeast chapter webpage for more information.
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Supporting Your LGBTQ Youth: A Guide for Foster Parents – In May of 2013, the Child Welfare Information Gateway published this factsheet. This factsheet discusses the unique risks and challenges LGBTQ youth face and how foster parents can reduce those risks and create a welcoming home.
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Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) – Offers support, education, and advocacy resources for parents, families, friends, and straight allies.
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Trans Youth Equality Foundation – Portland, Maine-based foundation that provides education, advocacy, and support groups for transgender youth, their families, and allies.
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Addressing the Needs of LGBTQ Youth in Foster Care – This article focuses on the difficulties LGBTQ youth face while in the foster care system and how adult allies, CASA volunteers, in particular, can advocate for youth and support them during their time in care. (CASA’s The Connection, 2009)
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LGBTQ+ College Student Guide - Written by: Intelligent.com Higher Education Team LGBTQ students have a significant presence on college campuses. Finding an LGBTQ-Friendly College: Before applying to a school, research. Much of your research can begin with college websites. Still, if you’re strongly considering a campus, we recommend consulting your high school counselors, the college’s admissions office, and current students in addition to reviewing their college website.
Hotlines:
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LGBT National Help Center: 1-888-843-4564 (Hotline)
1-800-246-7743 (Youth talk-line)
LGBT online peer support
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Trevor Helpline Crisis Intervention for LGBT Youth: 1-866-488-7386