06.18.23 |

The Trevor Project, the non-profit dedicated to helping LGBTQ+ youth

The Trevor Project, the non-profit dedicated to helping LGBTQ+ youth

Pride Month is a time to celebrate and honor the LGBTQ+ community while recognizing the struggles and achievements of its members. Within this vibrant community, many organizations are working tirelessly to support and uplift queer individuals; among them, The Trevor Project shines as a leading non-profit dedicated to providing crisis and suicide prevention services to LGBTQ+ youth.

Founded in 1998 by James Lecesne, Peggy Rajski, and Randy Stone, this organization emerged as a response to the urgent need for support and crisis intervention services for LGBTQ+ youth. Named after the Academy Award-winning short film “Trevor,” which tells the story of a young gay teenager who attempts suicide after struggling with his identity, The Trevor Project aimed to provide a lifeline for those facing similar challenges.

The nonprofit was established with funding from The Colin Higgins Foundation and financial support from HBO, which aired the short film. It became the first 24-hour free helpline for crisis intervention and suicide prevention for LGBTQ+ youth in the United States.

Additionally, The Trevor Project provides online support to young people through its website, along with guides and resources for educators and parents. Through these initiatives, it is dedicated to ensuring the well-being and support of LGBTQ+ youth at all times, positively impacting their lives.

The mission of The Trevor Project is clear: to end suicide among LGBTQ+ youth by providing them with the necessary support, resources, and community. The organization envisions a future where every young person, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, can thrive in a world free from discrimination and prejudice.

The Trevor Project offers a wide range of services, all designed to support LGBTQ+ youth in times of crisis and beyond:

– TrevorLifeline: This 24/7 confidential helpline provides immediate crisis intervention and suicide prevention services. Trained counselors offer a listening ear, empathy, and guidance to help young people navigate the challenges they face.

– TrevorText and TrevorChat: Recognizing the importance of accessible platforms, The Trevor Project introduced TrevorText and TrevorChat. These text and chat-based crisis support services offer a safe and secure space for individuals who may find it difficult to communicate over the phone.

– TrevorSpace: An online social networking community, TrevorSpace, connects LGBTQ+ youth from around the world. This platform offers a supportive environment where individuals can share experiences, find community, and access valuable resources.

– Trevor Support Center: The Trevor Project’s website provides a wealth of educational resources, including articles, guides, and toolkits for parents, educators, and allies. These materials aim to foster understanding, acceptance, and allyship within communities.

– Trevor Education Workshops: The Trevor Project conducts workshops and training programs to equip individuals, organizations, and educational institutions with the knowledge and skills to support LGBTQ+ youth effectively.

The Trevor Project’s impact is profound, as it has saved countless lives and provided essential support to vulnerable LGBTQ+ youth. Over the years, the organization has received numerous accolades for its tireless efforts, including recognition from the Human Rights Campaign, the Clinton Global Initiative, and the National Association of Social Workers.

In addition to its crisis intervention services, The Trevor Project actively engages in advocacy and awareness campaigns to create a more accepting, inclusive society. The organization collaborates with policymakers, advocates for LGBTQ+ rights, and lobbies for legislation that protects and supports LGBTQ+ youth, and its outreach efforts during Pride Month and beyond amplify messages of love, acceptance, and resilience.


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