Youth OUTright’s GSA Summit is back again! Get ready for a day-long conference for and by LGBTQIA+ youth. Engage in workshops on topics that affect your community and meet fellow Queer and Trans middle and high school students and youth advocates from across Western North Carolina!

We were so excited for our 2024 GSA Summit last year. Sadly, two weeks before our scheduled program, Hurricane Helene devastated our community and we had to cancel our summit. Almost a year after the hurricane, we are so excited to join again to focus on the power of community, something that held us through the tragedy and turmoil of the hurricane.

This year, GSA Summit 2025: Community Power will be held in Asheville, NC on October 18th from 9:30am-4pm. All presentations will be led by high school-age LGBTQIA+ youth and LGBTQIA+ community partners.

If you're a high school youth ages 11-18 and interested in this paid opportunity to present please
submit a proposal! The Deadline has been extended to August 31st!

Our focus this year is on community power. During these turbulent times where queer and trans rights are under attack, we have to build power together as a community to take the power back! We encourage attendees to visit vendor tables from community organizations, meet new friends, and we encourage GSA’s to attend together! Not in a GSA but want to start one on campus OR off campus? Get the skills and info here at the GSA Summit!

Travel Reimbursement Stipends

Youth OUTright has 30 travel stipends of $40 available for youth who need some extra support accessing the GSA Summit. Youth can email us at info@youthoutright.org to request a stipend. We will be distributing the stipends as reimbursements at the summit. If you need the stipend in advance, let us know that in your email, and we will work with you to make that happen!

FAQs

Is the GSA Summit free?

The summit is free for all attendees under 24. Adults 25 and up are encouraged to make a suggested donation of $35 to attend, which helps keep the summit free for all young people. No one will be turned away because of a lack of funds.

Will food be provided?

Yes. Included in your registration are water and snacks throughout the day, as well as lunch provided by our friends at Equal Plates Project. Vegan and gluten-free options will be provided.

What should I bring with me?

-A notebook and pen/pencil or note-taking device (we will have blank paper and writing utensils available)
-A reusable water bottle
-A coat or layers
-Device chargers

How can we keep each other healthy?

With the recent increase in COVID-19 cases, we have decided to make masks required. Every attendee will be provided a mask at check-in, or you can bring one with you. We understand that this may present sensory challenges for some youth and are willing to make accommodations as needed. If you are symptomatic (such as experiencing congestion, nausea, fever, or a cough), please do not attend the summit. We can refund your registration upon request. Let's keep each other healthy!

How are you keeping us safe?

A hired safety team will be present at the summit. If you bring a purse or backpack, you will go through a brief bag check. No weapons of any kind, real or fake, are allowed on the premises. Tobacco, alcohol, and illegal drugs are strictly prohibited.

Is there free parking?

Yes. There will be free parking available directly in front of the venue. You do not need a parking pass.

How is the GSA Summit funded?

The GSA Summit is funded by grants, like the Fund for Trans Generations, sponsors like the GSA Network, and donors like you!