Outlet, a program of ACS

Founded in 1997, Outlet empowers Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning, Intersex, Asexual/Agender+ (LGBTQIA+) youth and builds safe and accepting communities through support, education, and advocacy. Outlet envisions a world that embraces, empowers, and celebrates LGBTQIA+ youth. Outlet officially became a program of Adolescent Counseling Services in 2013.

Outlet is youth-centered, respecting all individuals and honoring their differences.  Outlet program staff provide a safe environment that is confidential, inclusive, and non-judgmental.  Striving for social justice and engaging youth in achieving freedom, fairness, and equality for all are the core elements of the program.  Outlet services support the emotional, physical, and social development of youth as whole individuals.

OUR SERVICES

Outlet empowers LGBTQIA+ youth – Outlet’s free social support groups are safe spaces for teens and young adults to find community and explore their identity in a welcoming environment. Groups include support groups for teens, young adults, trans* youth, QTBIPOC youth, and a Youth Advisory Board.

 Outlet provides mental health support - As a program of Adolescent Counseling Services, Outlet connects clients and their families to therapists who are familiar with the LGBTQIA+ experience and the unique challenges facing LGBTQIA+ identifying youth. This past year, Outlet's therapy services were offered without a waitlist for individuals, couples, and families, and services were administered in-person or via telehealth.

 Outlet creates safe and inclusive communities – Outlet works closely with families and schools to build safer living and learning environments through free consultations. We also offer fee-based workshops to schools, corporations, and community providers on topics like SOGIE (Sexual Orientation Gender Identity and Expression) 101, information on laws that protect LGBTQIA+ youth, and transgender/gender expansive education.

Last year we were fortunate to serve over 13,000 individuals in our community through direct services, consultations, education, and outreach. Please support Outlet on Give OUT Day and help us reach more!