Empowering LGBTQ+ Youth: The Mission of Inside Out Youth Services
Creating a Safe Space for LGBTQ+ Youth
For many LGBTQ+ youth, finding a safe, affirming space can be life-changing. Inside Out Youth Services, based in Colorado Springs, is dedicated to providing that sanctuary of support, advocacy, and empowerment.
At the forefront of this mission is LZ, Communications and Advocacy Director, who joined Inside Out to amplify queer voices, share stories of resilience, and create lasting change.
Before reading further, watch our exclusive podcast interview with LZ to hear firsthand about the organization’s impact on LGBTQ+ youth.
A Personal Journey to LGBTQ+ Advocacy
LZ’s advocacy is deeply personal.
Originally a journalist covering LGBTQ+ issues and the arts, LZ struggled with the challenge of maintaining objectivity while wanting to actively support their community.
When the opportunity arose to join Inside Out Youth Services, they embraced the chance to:
- Tell authentic queer stories.
- Advocate for LGBTQ+ rights openly.
- Foster a supportive, empowering environment for LGBTQ+ youth.
What started as a communications role quickly became a mission to uplift and empower young LGBTQ+ individuals.
Shifting Perspectives: From Helping to Empowering
At first, LZ believed their work was about "changing young lives for the better." But after spending time at Inside Out, their perspective shifted.
Empowerment, Not Intervention
Rather than simply providing solutions, Inside Out gives LGBTQ+ youth the tools to improve their own lives.
- The youth know what they need—Inside Out provides support to help them advocate for themselves.
- Community spaces allow young people to explore their identities in a safe, accepting environment.
- The goal isn’t to change them, but to empower them to embrace their true selves.
Watch the full interview here.
Transformative Stories of LGBTQ+ Youth
One of the most powerful stories Inside Out Youth Services has witnessed is that of a young person finding the courage to embrace their identity.
A Journey to Self-Acceptance
- When they first arrived at the community center, they wore clothing that did not reflect their true identity.
- Before returning home, they would change back into their “boy clothes” to avoid conflict.
- After two years of support from Inside Out, they:
- Came out to their family.
- Wore a dress to school for the first time.
- Found the confidence to embrace their true identity.
This transformation wasn’t just about clothing—it represented:
- Courage.
- Self-acceptance.
- The power of a supportive community.
Overcoming Challenges: Resilience in the Face of Adversity
In 2022, the LGBTQ+ community in Colorado Springs faced a devastating tragedy when a shooting at Club Q took five lives.
As the only LGBTQ+ organization in the area, Inside Out Youth Services had to:
- Support a grieving community while processing their own loss.
- Implement security measures to ensure youth safety at their center.
- Continue providing resources and advocacy despite increased threats.
This tragedy underscored the urgent need for safe spaces for LGBTQ+ youth and reinforced the importance of Inside Out’s work.
Celebrating Queer Joy: The Heart of Inside Out’s Mission
While LGBTQ+ advocacy often focuses on trauma and discrimination, Inside Out believes in celebrating queer joy.
Focusing on Resilience, Not Just Struggle
LZ credits Executive Director Jesse Pook for reminding them that:
- LGBTQ+ stories should highlight love, triumph, and happiness—not just adversity.
- Representation shouldn’t always center pain—it should uplift and inspire.
- Inside Out’s work isn’t just about protection—it’s about creating joy, freedom, and belonging.
Click to watch the full interview and learn how Inside Out fosters queer joy.
Expanding Inside Out Youth Services: A Growing Community
Inside Out Youth Services recently moved into a larger space, allowing them to:
- Expand their programs to support more youth.
- Increase participation by 25% since the move.
- Strengthen their impact on the local LGBTQ+ community.
How the Community Can Help
To maintain and grow these efforts, Inside Out relies on community support.Here’s how you can get involved:
1. Volunteer Your Time
- Share skills, mentorship, or personal experiences.
- Host workshops on career development, mental health, and self-expression.
- Participate in virtual opportunities to connect with LGBTQ+ youth.
2. Donate to Support LGBTQ+ Youth
- Financial contributions help provide:
- Safer spaces for youth.
- Educational programs and mental health resources.
- Emergency support for those facing crisis situations.
3. Advocate and Raise Awareness
- Speak out against discrimination.
- Share LGBTQ+ stories and resources.
- Encourage businesses and local leaders to support LGBTQ+ initiatives.
Every action—big or small—helps create a more inclusive world for LGBTQ+ youth.
Final Thoughts: A Future of Acceptance and Empowerment
Inside Out Youth Services is more than just a safe space—it’s a community of empowerment, joy, and resilience.
Through advocacy, education, and community-building, they continue to:
- Inspire LGBTQ+ youth to embrace their identities.
- Create a world where queer joy is celebrated.
- Ensure every LGBTQ+ young person has a place to belong.
Watch the full interview with LZ to learn how Inside Out is changing lives and building a brighter future for LGBTQ+ youth.