RESOURCES FOR LGBTQ YOUTH

Navigating the journey as an LGBTQ+ youth can be challenging. We've curated this list to provide accessible resources, ensuring you feel supported and validated.

While we've diligently researched these resources, Brave Trails does not officially endorse any specific provider. We encourage you to consult with a trusted adult or guardian when exploring these options.

Have a resources you think we should add? Email us at info@bravetrails.org

 

State Specific Resources

Curated by Brave Trails Mental Health Program Manager Mari!

 
 
 

Explore Resources by Category

 

  • Resources to Make Your School Safer

    • GSA Network- Connects school-based Gay-Straight Alliances (GSAs) to each other and community resources, supporting student-led efforts to combat homophobia and transphobia in schools.

    • Trans Student Educational Resources (TSER) - A youth-led organization dedicated to transforming the educational environment for trans and gender non-conforming students through advocacy and empowerment.

    • Welcoming Schools - A comprehensive bias-based bullying prevention program providing LGBTQ and gender-inclusive professional development, lesson plans, booklists, and resources specifically designed for Pre K-8 educators and youth-serving professionals.

    • GLSEN - Works to ensure that LGBTQ students can learn and grow in a school environment free from bullying and harassment, offering resources, research, and policy advocacy.

    • Rainbow Labs - A mentorship and leadership development program empowering LGBTQ+ youth, particularly those from underserved communities, by providing guidance, resources, and a strong support network.

    • Safe Schools Coalition - An international public-private partnership in support of LGBTQ youth, striving to help schools become safe places where every family can belong.

    • You Can Play Project - Works to ensure the safety and inclusion of all LGBTQ+ individuals in sports, teaming up athletes and allies for respect.

    LGBTQ+ College Resources

    Scholarship Lists for LGBTQ Youth

  • We wish this section was as full and vibrant as it should be, but the unfortunate reality is that LGBTQ+ stories—especially those from diverse backgrounds—are often underrepresented or misrepresented in the media. Many of our campers share this concern at camp. While these are some of the better options available, we hope to see these lists continue to grow with a stronger focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion!

    TV LIST FOR LGBTQ TEENS

    • Love, Victor (TV-14) – A high school student embarks on a journey of self-discovery and first love.

    • The Fosters (TV-14) – A heartwarming drama about a family with same-sex parents and their adopted kids.

    • One Day at a Time (TV-PG) – A comedy-drama featuring a queer Latina teen navigating family and identity.

    • I Am Jazz (TV-PG) – A reality series following trans activist Jazz Jennings.

    • Pose (TV-MA/15+) – A stunning look at 1980s ballroom culture and LGBTQ+ history.

    • The Real O’Neals (TV-14) – A lighthearted sitcom featuring a gay teen coming out to his Catholic family.

    • Glee (TV-PG) – A musical series featuring a diverse cast of LGBTQ+ characters.

    • Andi Mack (TV-G) – A Disney show with positive LGBTQ+ representation.

    • Modern Family (TV-PG) – A beloved comedy with a prominent gay couple raising a family.

    • Diary of a Future President (TV-PG) – A story about a Cuban-American girl with a queer sibling.

    • Steven Universe (TV-PG) – A groundbreaking animated series exploring love, identity, and acceptance.

    • The Bravest Knight (TV-Y) – A charming fairy-tale adventure featuring a two-dad family.

    • She-Ra and the Princesses of Power (TV-Y7) – A fantasy adventure with strong LGBTQ+ themes and characters.

    • Danger & Eggs (TV-Y7) – A fun animated show with nonbinary and LGBTQ+ representation.

    • AJ and the Queen (TV-14) – A drag queen and a scrappy young sidekick hit the road in this adventure series.

    MOVIE LIST FOR LGBTQ TEENS

    • Love, Simon (PG-13) – A heartfelt coming-of-age story about a teen navigating high school and coming out.

    • The Perks of Being a Wallflower (TV-MA/15+) – A touching story about friendship, mental health, and self-acceptance.

    • The Out List & The Trans List (Documentaries) – Powerful interviews with LGBTQ+ individuals sharing their experiences.

    • The Death and Life of Marsha P. Johnson (TV-MA/16+) – A documentary honoring the legacy of trans activist Marsha P. Johnson.

    • PRIDE (TV-MA/15+) – A docuseries covering the history of LGBTQ+ rights and struggles.

    • RENT (PG-13/14+) – A Broadway musical-turned-movie about love, friendship, and found family.

    • The Most Dangerous Year (Documentary, PG-13) – A look at the fight for trans rights in America.

    • Will & Harper (Not Rated) – This documentary follows Will Ferrell and his close friend Harper Steele, a trans woman, as they embark on a heartfelt road trip across the U.S.

    • Disclosure (TV-MA) – A powerful documentary examining the history of transgender representation in film and television, featuring insights from trans actors, filmmakers, and activists.

    • Summer Qamp (Not Rated) – A feel-good documentary capturing the joy and resilience of LGBTQ+ youth at a summer camp.

  • esources for Parents of LGBTQ+ Youth

    • PFLAG - A national organization offering support, education, and advocacy for LGBTQ+ individuals and their families. PFLAG provides local chapters, resources, and community connections to help parents navigate their child's journey.

    • Transforming Family - A Los Angeles-based family support group creating a positive environment for children, adolescents, and their families to explore issues of gender identity. They offer parent support groups, youth playgroups, and various resources.

    • CenterLink - A member-based coalition supporting the development of strong, sustainable LGBTQ community centers. Their directory helps locate local centers offering resources and support for parents and youth.

    • Gender Spectrum - Provides education, training, and support to create gender-sensitive and inclusive environments for all children and teens. They offer online support groups for parents and caregivers, as well as a wealth of informational resources.

    • Latino Equality Alliance - Focuses on advocacy and community building for Latina/o/x LGBTQ youth and their families. They offer support groups, including PFLAG meetings in both Spanish and English, and various community resources.

    • COLAGE - An organization dedicated to supporting people with one or more LGBTQ+ caregivers. They unite youth in similar situations, providing a network of peers and resources to empower and support each other.

    • Family Equality - Advocates for LGBTQ families by providing support, resources, and guidance. They offer information on starting families, parenting, and navigating various challenges unique to LGBTQ families.

  • Clothing Brands by and for LGBTQ+ People:

    • TomboyX - Genderless underwear, shirts, swimsuits, and more!

    • Transfigure Print Co. - A trans-owned clothing company creating gender-affirming streetwear and accessories that celebrate identity and self-expression.

    • Lisa Congdon - A queer artist and designer known for bold, inclusive, and affirming artwork featured on apparel, accessories, and home goods.

    • Wildfang - Suits and clothes for all bodies, embracing individuality and style.

    • CHNGE - A sustainable fashion brand committed to activism and gender-neutral streetwear with bold messages on social justice and LGBTQ+ rights.

    • Gay Pride Apparel - A queer-owned brand offering pride-themed clothing and accessories that celebrate love and identity year-round.

    • The Plus Bus - A body-inclusive resale boutique specializing in plus-size fashion with a focus on LGBTQ+ inclusivity and sustainable shopping.

    • Big Bud Press - A Los Angeles-based brand offering size-inclusive, colorful, and gender-neutral clothing made ethically in the USA.

    • A Tribe Called Queer - A Black, queer-owned shop offering apparel and accessories with queer-pride and Black-pride quotes.

    • Dapper Boi - Gender-neutral clothing offering a unique fit in a wide range of sizes.

    • Ash and Chess - A clothing & art brand by a queer and trans power couple.

    • gc2b - Gender-affirming chest binders designed by and for trans people. LGBT-owned and operated.

    • Peau De Loup - Androgynous-style clothing designed for all bodies with curves, regardless of gender identity.

    • Bianca Designs - Inclusive enamel pins, stickers, patches, and other goods made with love in Queens, NY.

    • Bowtie Behavior -  A Black, queer-owned business selling handmade bowties with matching pocket squares.

    • Rebirth Garments  - Gender non-conforming wearables and accessories centering non-binary, trans, and disabled queers of all sizes and ages.

  • LGBTQ+ Legal Support

    • Lambda Legal - A national organization committed to achieving full recognition of the civil rights of LGBTQ+ individuals and those living with HIV through impact litigation, education, and public policy work.

    • Transgender Law Center - The largest national trans-led organization advocating for self-determination for all people, utilizing legal expertise and collective action to effect change.

    • GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders (GLAD) - A legal rights organization dedicated to ending discrimination based on sexual orientation, HIV status, and gender identity and expression.

    • Advocates for Trans Equality - Formed from the merger of the National Center for Transgender Equality and the Transgender Legal Defense & Education Fund, this organization fights for the legal and political rights of transgender people in America.

    • Transgender Legal Defense & Education Fund (TLDEF) - Committed to ending discrimination based on gender identity and expression, TLDEF engages in public education, test-case litigation, direct legal services, and public policy efforts.

    • Know Your Rights: A Guide for LGBTQ Youth - A comprehensive resource by the ACLU outlining the rights of LGBTQ youth in various settings, including schools and public spaces.

    • Schuyler Bailar's Guide to Legal Name Changes - An insightful article by Schuyler Bailar offering guidance on navigating the legal name change process.

  • Support & Resources for LGBTQ+ People of Color

    • Marsha P. Johnson Institute - Dedicated to defending and protecting the rights of Black transgender people, the institute offers advocacy programs, community resources, and policy initiatives to combat systemic discrimination.

    • Latino Equality Alliance - Focused on the Latinx LGBTQ+ community, this organization provides support, resources, and advocacy, including PFLAG groups conducted in Spanish to foster family acceptance and understanding.

    • National Black Justice Coalition (NBJC) - A civil rights organization dedicated to the empowerment of Black LGBTQ+ individuals, NBJC engages in advocacy, public policy, and education to address the unique challenges faced by this community.

    • Trans Women of Color Collective (TWOCC) - Committed to uplifting the narratives and leadership of trans and gender non-conforming people of color, TWOCC focuses on community-driven solutions and collective liberation efforts.

    • G.L.I.T.S. (Gays and Lesbians Living in a Transgender Society) - Founded by Ceyenne Doroshow, G.L.I.T.S. provides housing, healthcare, and leadership development for transgender individuals and sex workers, particularly those seeking asylum.

    • The Knights and Orchids Society (TKOS) - Based in Alabama, TKOS offers healthcare, legal assistance, and housing aid to Black LGBTQ+ individuals, focusing on transgender and gender non-conforming people.

    • Campaign for Southern Equality (CSE) - Operating in North Carolina, CSE provides support and advocacy for LGBTQ+ individuals in the Southern United States, addressing legal and healthcare disparities.

    • For the Gworls - A Black, trans-led collective that fundraises to assist Black transgender people with rent, gender-affirming surgeries, and other essential needs.

    • Black Trans Fund - Provides financial support to Black trans individuals for various needs, aiming to improve their quality of life and access to essential services.

    • Genderbands - Offers grants for medical costs, document changes, and travel, primarily assisting transgender individuals in the United States.

  • OUR FAVORITE LGBTQ+ YOUTH BOOK LISTS

    MUST-READ LGBTQ+ BOOKS

    • A Different Kind of Brave by Lee Wind – A gem for young adults: not just a high-octane thriller but also a queer romance full of heart and sensuality.

    • Gender Queer by Maia Kobabe – A powerful graphic memoir about identity and self-discovery.

    • Beyond the Gender Binary by Alok Vaid-Menon – A thought-provoking book challenging gender norms.

    • A Quick & Easy Guide to They/Them Pronouns by Archie Bongiovonni & Tristan Jimerson – An accessible guide for allies and LGBTQ+ youth.

    • HE/SHE/THEY by Schuyler Bailar – A memoir about navigating gender identity.

    • All Boys Aren't Blue: A Memoir-Manifesto by George M. Johnson – A compelling coming-of-age story about growing up Black and queer.

    • Pageboy by Elliot Page – A deeply personal memoir from the award-winning actor.

    • The T Guide by Gigi Gorgeous and Gottmik – A trans guide and memoir by two icons.

    • ACE by Angela Chen – An insightful exploration of asexuality and its place in LGBTQ+ identities.

    • Friends of Dorothy by Anthony Uzarowski – A look at LGBTQ+ history in Hollywood.

    • Young Queer America by Maxwell Poth – A photography book celebrating LGBTQ+ youth.

    • Our Work is Everywhere: An Illustrated Oral History of Queer & Trans Resistance by Syan Rose – A visual celebration of LGBTQ+ activism.

    • Junior High & High School by Tegan & Sara Quin – A twin memoir about coming of age as queer musicians.

    • A Year Without a Name by Cyrus Grace Dunham – A poetic journey through gender transition.

    • Non-Binary Lives: An Anthology of Intersecting Identities – Essays on the nonbinary experience.

    • Legendary Children by Tom Fitzgerald & Lorenzo Marquez – A history of RuPaul’s Drag Race and queer culture.

    • Trans Bodies, Trans Selves by Laura Erickson-Schroth – A vital resource for trans people, by trans people.

    • Corpses, Fools, and Monsters: The History and Future of Transness in Cinema by Willow Maclay & Caden Gardner – An in-depth look at trans representation in film.

    • Fun Home: A Family Tragicomic by Alison Bechdel – A graphic memoir exploring identity and family.

    • And the Category Is… Inside New York's Vogue, House, and Ballroom Community by Ricky Tucker – A deep dive into the ballroom scene.

    OUR FAVORITE LGBTQ+ PODCASTS

    • Nancy – A podcast exploring LGBTQ+ stories and experiences.

    • Queery – Hosted by Cameron Esposito, featuring interviews with queer luminaries.

    • Making Gay History – An incredible podcast bringing LGBTQ+ history to life.

    • One From the Vaults – A deep dive into trans history.

    • Food 4 Thot – A multiracial mix of queer writers talking about sex, culture, and identity.

    • Gender Reveal – A trans-focused podcast that explores gender in all its complexity.

    • Being Seen – A podcast about the power of visibility and intersectionality in queer communities.

    • The Out Agenda – A weekly show focused on LGBTQ+ news, culture, and activism.

    • Bad Queers – Conversations about the complexities of modern queer life.

    • The Read – A hilarious culture and entertainment podcast by two Black queer hosts.

 
 

Looking for LGBTQ+ owned businesses and safe spaces wherever you go? Everywhere Is Queer is a global map of LGBTQ+ owned businesses created by Charlie Sprinkman, a former Brave Trails staff member!

Charlie started Everywhere Is Queer to help LGBTQ+ people find affirming and welcoming businesses, from coffee shops to bookstores to travel destinations. Whether you're traveling, moving to a new place, or just looking for a queer-friendly space near you, this interactive map can help you find community wherever you are!