“45% of gay males and 20% of lesbians report having experienced verbal harassment and/or physical violence as a result of their sexual orientation during high school, and 42% of adolescent lesbians and 34% of adolescent gay males who have suffered physical attack also attempt suicide...” The Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN)
Youth
Lesbian, gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) youth face tremendous difficulties growing up in a society where heterosexuality is often presented as the only acceptable orientation. Research suggests that homophobia and heterosexism greatly contribute to higher rates of suicide, violence, victimization, risk behavior for HIV infection, and substance abuse among LGBTQ youth as compared to their heterosexual peers.
In recent years, a number of promising programs have been established to help LGBTQ youth gain the skills and support they need to develop into healthy adults in a society that largely rejects them. San Diego is fortunate to have a strong and vibrant LGBT Center that operates a model LGBTQ-supportive housing project for homeless youth and the Hillcrest Youth Center.
SDHDF supports our local efforts to meet the needs of our LGBT youth through advocacy, promoting safe schools, education and services. If you would like to find out more about how you can help support our youth, please contact Tony Freeman at 619-291-3383.
Families
“More than 16,000 adopted children live with LGBT parents in California—highest number among states.”
The rapid growth in the number of same sex families opens a new frontier in resourcing and advocacy. Today’s same sex couples want to raise their families in a world that is safe and supportive. While much progress has been made, same sex families still face institutionalized and unceremonious discrimination and prejudice. Simple, everyday activities such as communicating with doctors, teachers, and neighbors can be fraught with rejection and second-class treatment. These are in addition to the already significant challenges every parent faces in raising a child.
SDHDF is proud to support our community’s efforts to provide effective resources, advocacy, education, and social outlets for our LGBT families. Our 2008 – 2009 Community Grants Program allocated 20% of the total funded to support LGBT families.
We welcome your partnership in further promoting and securing the well-being of LGBT families. While we strive for equal treatment and acceptance, the need for supportive services and resources is growing . To find out more about how you help sustain and strengthen LGBT families, please contact Tony Freeman at 619-291-3383.
Community Profiles on Youth & Families
The Center
San Diego Youth & Family Services
San Diego Human Dignity Foundation is ready to connect you with causes and programs that promote LGBT youth and family issues. Together will make change happen.
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