ALSO Youth

Founded in 1992, ALSO Youth is one of very few LGBTQ+ Youth Centers in the state of Florida. Free mental health counseling, college scholarships, fun weekly programs, summer camps, and an annual prom are just a few of the services ALSO Youth continues to provide after three decades of operating in Sarasota and Manatee Counties. 

In October 2024, ALSO Youth lost their flagship Sarasota Center to the devastating effects of Hurricane Milton, after residing there for over 20 years. Since then, all operations have moved to the Manatee Center, which just celebrated its two-year anniversary in January 2025. Thankfully, due to generous community partnerships, ALSO has been able to host intermittent satellite programs at community spaces. 

Despite the hardships encountered, ALSO Youth has continued to see an increase in youth registration and has continued to expand the type and number of services offered. Introduced in 2024 was the GED Scholarship Program, where youth can receive their GED through full funding by ALSO Youth, and the Youth Leadership Program, which totaled over 20 youth members that completed 500+ hours of volunteer work in 2024!

Each month, we provide funding for over 90 sessions of mental health counseling - available in-person or virtually, and without the need for insurance. This support extends not only to LGBTQ+ youth but also to their families, ensuring that everyone has access to the care they need. 

When our community's need grows, ALSO Youth is there to offer a helping hand. But we can't do this alone. Along with our growth comes a larger need for support. We rely on donors, ambassadors, friends, and volunteers to ensure that we can continue to provide every free program and service we currently have and continue to grow in what we can offer underserved youth. 

 Your partnership and generosity help us sustain and expand our vital services, and play a key role in creating kinder, more inclusive communities. Thank you for standing with ALSO Youth!