David's 40th Birthday - Supporting Time Out Youth

Celebrating my 40th trip around the sun, I'm excited to embark on a special mission: raising funds for Time Out Youth, a beacon of hope for LGBTQ youth aged 13-24 in Charlotte and beyond. As I mark this midlife milestone, I'm reminded of Time Out Youth's own journey, founded just seven years after my own arrival on this planet.

Since its inception in 1991, Time Out Youth has been a lifeline for over 20,000 LGBTQ young people, offering solace, guidance, and vital resources in times of need. From housing & supportive services, to therapy an drop-in space, the Center's comprehensive support system has been instrumental in fostering a safe and nurturing environment for our youth.

Having joined Time Out Youth in 2020 and now serving as its Chief Operating Officer, I've witnessed firsthand the profound impact of our programs and the dedication of our staff. Every day, we strive to create spaces where young people can thrive, surrounded by understanding and consistent support.

As I slide into my fourth decade of life, I invite you to join me in supporting Time Out Youth and the remarkable youth it serves. 

During the month of May, and as part of Give OUT Day, Time Out Youth is aiming to raise $5,000 to serve Charlotte's LGBTQ+ youth, changing the lives of many of the over 1,800 youth we provide support and resources to annually. 

Your incredibly important contribution can make life easier for so many LGBTQ+ youth:

1. Your $25 gift will go toward removing barriers for young people who need help with transportation to and from work and housing appointments.
2. Your $50 gift will go toward supporting our Life Essential Closet, a program that provides short-term relief and supports them in gaining their independence.
3. Your $100 gift will go toward providing youth proper access to healthy food options that are the solution to lifestyle and behavioral changes.
4. Your $250 gift will go toward one of our welcome home baskets that are filled with move-in ready items to help youth transition into their new home.
5. Your $500 gift will provide gift cards and direct aid to youth in need of emergency funds.
6. Your $1000 gift will go toward helping move youth into housing after experiencing long-term homelessness.

In my capacity at Time Out Youth, I am privileged to help share the stories of our young people. Yet, nothing resonates quite like the unfiltered joy emanating from the Center when articulated in their own voice:

“My first time at TOY last night was unforgettable, the people there were kind and there was free Chinese food and games and a friend was watching Supernatural and there was a computer room and I played with a dance ribbon thing and some kids were playing on an Xbox and they shared so well and someone had a ukulele. I sat on a couch and realized that someone woke up in the morning and decided to care about the kids who are different and maybe don’t fit in at other places and they created a welcoming space with real unbiased information on the walls and a huge shelf of games and buttons with our pronouns. Someone woke up and decided to love total strangers and I almost cried sitting there, I didn’t want to leave. Thank you TOY for loving me, I think I love you too.”             – Center Youth

The collaboration between our staff and youth holds immense significance, and it's not an exaggeration to say it's life-saving. According to the Trevor Project, 41% of LGBTQ young individuals seriously considered suicide in the past year. Transgender, nonbinary, and/or people of color within this demographic reported even higher rates. 56% of LGBTQ youth who sought mental health care couldn't access it.

In Charlotte, Time Out Youth stands as a crucial pillar, bridging a significant gap in our community. It provides a lifeline for young people in desperate need of supportive adults and resources. As a community, it's our shared responsibility to ensure that our remarkable young people have access, opportunities, and support to ensure that their futures are bright.

Thank you so much for your support - and cheers to 40!

With love,

David