What We Do
Programs
Programs at IYG revolve around building community, developing leadership qualities, and increasing self-esteem and self-efficacy. Through these programs, IYG lessens the impact of stressors commonly faced by queer youth and young adults.
Just a few of our regular programs include:
- Basic Needs
- Support Advocacy (formerly Case Management)
- Mental Health Services
- Housing Program
- Sexual Health Education
- STI/HIV Testing
- Support and discussion groups
- Affinity and Special Interest Groups
- Arts and Crafts
- Educational Support
- Workforce Development
- Risk prevention
- GSA Network
In addition to scheduled programs, young people also have the option of hanging out with their friends and peers! Gaming, karaoke, dancing, and outdoor activities are just a handful of common activities.
Support Advocacy
One of the most important resources we offer to young people is Support Advocacy. IYG’s support advocates interview and evaluate youth and young adults to complete intakes and assessments. This helps determine risks and relevant support they may require such as mental health counseling, housing, and legal assistance. For those experiencing homelessness, support advocates help navigate the system and obtain necessary documentation (i.e. social security card, state identification, birth certificate, etc.). Many parents withhold these documents when kicking their queer child out of the family home or they may become lost while an individual is unhoused or housing insecure. Without these documents, it is nearly impossible for young people to apply for services, enroll in school, apply for a job, or register for the High School Equivalency exam.
Basic Needs
One in four LGBTQ+ youth that comes out to their family is kicked out of their home. Many youth “couch surf,” stay with family/friends, or end up living on the street.
IYG offers a plethora of resources for these young people including:
Laundry
Shower
Food pantry
Rehousing assistance
Housewares and household products
Hygiene products
Clothing
Transportation assistance
Mental Health
IYG’s Mental Health Services provides free short-term and long-term individual counseling and clinician-led support groups to queer youth, young adults, and their allies in the state of Indiana. Counseling services can be provided in person at an IYG campus or via telehealth.
The mission of this program is to reduce barriers of access to quality, queer-affirming mental health services, support the mental health needs of participants, and offer a variety of counseling modalities, all free of charge.
For more information, please click here.
Indiana GSA
Network
As the statewide administrator of the Indiana Genders and Sexualities Alliance* (GSA or INGSA), IYG provides support to GSA and similarly minded diversity clubs in middle and high schools across the state. Support comes in the form of information, community, skill-building resources, regional and statewide events, and annual site visits. IYG also helps student leaders and faculty advisors in the startup, development, and maintenance of GSAs in their own schools. In conjunction with the IYG Cultural Competency and Professional Development Program, INGSA offers LGBTQ+ competency and development opportunities for teachers and school staff.
*Formerly known as the Gay-Straight Alliance.
Housing Program
IYG’s Housing Program provides long-term housing to young people experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity. Through the program, clients can select housing that suits their personal needs and goals as well as receive assistance in setting up their new home with utilities, furniture, housewares, and cleaning products. While enrolled, young people receive support and education that will allow them to foster the necessary independent living skills to remain in their home, maintain it, and support themselves indefinitely.
Since its founding in October 2020, IYG has housed more than 200 individuals.
Parents & Community
IYG offers education, support, and resources to parents, guardians, family, and other caring adults with queer young people in their lives. Meetups, support groups, discussion panels, and both one-on-one and family counseling sessions are all available!
IYG also offers education and support opportunities for the community. The IYG Cultural Competency and Professional Development Program provides a wide array of trainings and workshops aimed at building awareness and understanding of concepts and issues concerning queer youth and the LGBTQ+ community. Through this initiative, IYG works with businesses, civic organizations, social groups, and faith communities to foster a more inclusive and welcoming Indiana for all.
