Youth

Persad Center provides a variety of programs to support LGBT youth. We are committed to having safe spaces where youth can be themselves, and to protecting youth from discrimination and abuse that frequently occurs in their lives at home, school, church and other social systems. We recognize that LGBT youth have higher suicide rates, higher rates of homelessness, and have pressures that can create depression, anxiety, unsafe behaviors, and school drop out. Persad is committed to being available to youth who are struggling.

Persad also recognized that many LGBT youth are extraordinarily resilient, are supported by their families and need to be celebrated and given opportunities to develop their gifts and talents. Persad programs encourage these youth to become leaders and to appreciate their uniqueness.

Click above for more information about our youth programs:

• Afterschool program – held at the Pittsburgh Gay and Lesbian Community Center

• Closing the Gap – peer youth counselors help their peers and encourage the to receive counseling services when needed

• Youth Empowerment Project – peers reaching out to prevent HIV and STD transmissions

• Street Smart – developing skills to prevent substance abuse and HIV/AIDS

• Every Child – collaborative to create specialized in home services for LGBT families

• Counseling – professional counseling services for LGBT parents or youth

For more information about our services, please contact our Youth Coordinator: Lyndsey Sickler at 412.441.9786 extension 220 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it