In the past year, LYG has made significant strides in supporting our community:

Outreach: We served over 330 individual youth through in-house programs, with a total of over 950 attendees at all programs and activities.
Program Development: Our new initiatives, including the Junior Group, Melanin MagiQ, and LYG Rising, are aimed at meeting the diverse needs of our youth.
Family Support: We established a Facebook group for parents and caregivers, fostering ongoing connections and support.
Mentorship: We trained approximately 30 mentors to model healthy behaviors and support the growth of LGBTQIA+ and allied youth.
Advocacy: We actively campaigned against harmful legislation, including SB150, and engaged in educational workshops and panels.
Community Engagement: We expanded our presence at Pride parades and festivals, and hosted events to celebrate and empower our community.

Ongoing Programs

LYG provides a brave and affirming space for youth aged 5-24 to explore their identities, develop life skills, and foster community connections. Our offerings include:

Junior Group: For youth aged 5-12 and their caregivers, focusing on identity exploration and building a supportive community.
Teen Group: For LGBTQIA+ youth aged 13-19, where participants can engage in various activities and discussions tailored to their needs.
Melanin MagiQ: A group for LGBTQIA+ youth of the Global Majority to explore the intersectionality of their identities.
Trans & Non-Binary Group: Providing support and guidance for transgender and non-binary youth navigating their self-discovery.
LYG Rising: A monthly meetup for young adults aged 18-24, focusing on socialization and life skills development.

Special Events and Community Engagement

Throughout the year, we host numerous events to build community and raise awareness, such as:

Queer Prom: An inclusive alternative to traditional school proms for LGBTQIA+ youth.
Empowerment Camp: A weekend retreat for youth to connect and build confidence in a safe environment.
Fundraising Events: We hold various events, such as the Glitter Gala and Friends and Family Pasta Dinner, to support our programs.

Looking Ahead

As we reflect on our achievements and the impact we've made over the past 30 years, we remain committed to our mission and to the youth we serve. We are excited to continue expanding our programs, advocating for LGBTQIA+ rights, and fostering a community where all young people can thrive.

Join us in our journey as we empower the next generation of leaders and advocates in Kentucky and Southern Indiana. Together, we can create a brighter future for LGBTQIA+ youth.

For more information about our programs, events, and how to get involved, visit www.louisvilleyouthgroup.org.

Pasta Dinner 2025