Youth Outlook

Established in 1998, Youth Outlook is Illinois' first and longest-running nonprofit social services agency, solely dedicated to providing the care and community LGBTQ+ youth need to reach their full potential. Our services are offered statewide, including virtual and in-person drop-in centers for youth ages 5–20, caregiver and parent support, health and wellness navigation, and community education and professional development.

Our Drop-In Centers meet weekly and are a social setting for youth to meet other LGBTQ+ young people and talk about various topics that really matter to them, providing a place for LGBTQ+ youth to feel safe, supported, and celebrated. Trained staff and volunteers lead all programming, which includes identity and self-esteem, physical and mental health, political awareness, healthy relationships, and other topics requested by attendees. *Most groups welcome youth ages 12-20, exceptions are noted by each location.

Thrive is open to adult parents and caregivers (we welcome foster parents, guardians, and full-time caregivers) of LGBTQ+ teens and young adults. Grandparents and other relatives have a different role with our kids. We are happy to offer other resources, such as PFLAG, for extended family members. Thrive will be launching in Sycamore in June 2025!

Rainbow Sprouts is for LGBTQ+ youth in grades K–6 and their caregivers and families. We meet the 2nd and 4th Saturdays from 1:00–3:00 p.m. in the Naperville/Aurora area.

 

ES: Youth Outlook se complace en anunciar el lanzamiento de nuestro nuevo grupo de apoyo a padres y tutores, Prosperar, para padres y familias de jóvenes LGBTQ+. El grupo será facilitado en español.  Encuentra comunidad con otras familias quienes comparten experiencias similares y aprende de expertos quienes proveerán percepciones valuables para ayudarle a navegar este viaje.

El grupo se reunirá el primer y tercer miércoles de cada mes de 7:00pm - 8:00pm, el grupo es gratuito.

Para inscribirse, envíe un correo electrónico a prosperar@youth-outlook.org

EN: Youth Outlook is proud to offer our new parent and caregiver group, Prosperar, for parents and families of LGBTQ+ youth.  Find community with other families who share similar experiences and learn from experts who will provide valuable insights to help you navigate this journey. This group will be conducted entirely in Spanish (not bilingual) and is offered at no cost.

The group will meet the first and third Wednesdays of each month from 7:00pm-8:00pm and there is no cost to attend. 

To join, email prosperar@youth-outlook.org. For our English speaking parent and caregiver support group, please email thrive@youth-outlook.org.

Our Health and Wellness Navigators work personally with you to identify your goals, navigate finding affirming physical and mental healthcare, and get you connected to additional resources you may need as a LGBTQ+ person or family member. Plus, this service is offered at no cost to you! Whether you need a one time phone call consultation or would like to create a navigation/goal plan, this program is for you. 

***ALL OF OUR DIRECT SERVICES ARE OFFERED AT NO COST TO PARTICIPANTS***