GLYS Western New York, Inc.

GLYS advocates for community awareness and acceptance of young people of all sexual orientations and gender identities.  Here are just a few of the ways we achieve our mission to provide an accepting environment to enhance the personal growth of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and questioning youth in Western New York:

• GLYS Staff frequently educate audiences at schools, businesses and community organizations
• A three-time weekly drop-in center serving any and all GLBTQ+ youth and their allies every Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday afternoon serving hundreds of area youth
• A community space open to groups with a common mission such as Leaving Our Legacy that helps youth adopt healthy and safe sexual attitudes and practices
• Intensive monthly support groups for transgender youth and their parents helping dozens of youth and families
• A twice-monthly social group for trans youth
• An annual LGBTQ+ Diversity Prom that removes the barriers to self-expression
• Support and coordination for all Gay-Straight Alliances (GSAs) at high schools and some middle schools in our 8-county region supporting more welcoming places of growth
• An annual conference for all the GSAs in our region which served over 400 youth and GSA advisors last year
• Coordination of over 350 youth Marching in the Pride Parade, providing a transformative experience
• Support groups for youth in area shelters and mental health/recovery facilities

Daily we answer calls from youth in need of resources and support– youth who are left with little or no options that potentially place their lives in peril. Sometimes it is a parent who loves their child and is agonized by their suffering. We are here for them to turn to – Please make your gift today!