SMYAL operates its supervised supportive housing program for 26 LGBTQ youth. Other virtual programs allow SMYAL to expand its reach and empower LGBTQ youth from across the region and country, many of whom come from homes that are not supportive of who they are. A national conference for queer and trans youth, daily topic-oriented chat rooms and drop-in programs connect youth with their peers and build community. A Youth Care Navigation Hotline helps them identify food, mental, sexual, and health resources. A Little SMYAL's program provides culturally- and age-appropriate programming for youth ages 6-12. Facebook live discussion panels with other youth-serving professionals from across the country mean sharing best practices on serving youth.

Headquarters: DC-Ward 6

Where They Operate: DC-Citywide; MD-Montgomery County; MD-Prince George's County; VA-Arlington County; VA-Fairfax County; VA-City of Alexandria; VA-City of Fairfax; VA-City of Falls Church

Age Groups Served: Youth (5-11); Pre-teen/teen (12-17); Young adult (18-24)

Ethnic Groups Served: African American; Asian American; Caucasian; Latino/Hispanic; Other

Population(s) Served: Individuals who identify as LGBTQ; Individuals living with HIV/AIDs; Students; Gays/Lesbians; HIV/AIDs; Low- to Moderate-Income Community Members

Awards & Recognition

GLAA Distinguished Service Award, April 2012
Washington Blade "Best Nonprofit" Award, 2011
Capital Pride Parade "Lady Gaga Award" for Best Theme and Energy, June 2011

Press

  • Organization helps young LGBT community
    Thu Dec 4 2008  
    Washington, D.C.'s only completely youth-centered sexual orientation awareness group has created a place of belonging for LGBT teens in the Prince George's County and the District, bringing them together for events that range from movie nights to group counseling and making sure everyone who walks through its doors gets tested for HIV and is educated about safe sex.
    connect here

Budget (FY2023)

  • The current budget for SMYAL is: $3 million or higher
  • $1 million to $3 million
  • $500k to $1 million
  • Less than $500k

Catalogue charities range in size from $100,000 to $3 million. This graphic indicates the budget range of the organization featured here. If you see an organizational budget above the $3 million mark, that is because the featured charity has grown in size since it first appeared in the Catalogue. We proudly present on our website the work of these "growth" charities.

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