Serving Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Questioning Youth With Open Arms

A recent report from the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, “Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Youth: An Epidemic of Homelessness,” estimates that between 20 and 40 percent of all runaway and homeless American youth identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender, compared to 3 to 5 percent of the general population. These youth are also more likely than their peers to contemplate or attempt suicide. But providing these young people with support, safety, and respect can make a big difference. In this issue of The Exchange, we take a look at how family- and youth-serving organizations serve lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning youth.