The holiday season can bring both joy and challenges, especially for LGBTQIA+ youth and their allies. Discover tips for creating affirming spaces, supporting loved ones, and showing compassion during this time of year.

Supporting a trans or nonbinary child can feel like uncharted territory, but you’re not alone. At Out Youth, we’re here to help families create safe, affirming spaces where their kids can thrive. Discover practical ways to listen, learn, and celebrate your child while building a brighter future together.

To celebrate National Coming Out Day, we had the privilege of sitting down with Jaryn Holbrook Janeway, MBA (they/them), Out Youth’s Director of Programs & Operations, and co-author of Trans+: Love, Sex, Romance, and Being You. Jaryn shared their powerful coming out journey, the challenges they faced, and the advice they have for those on the cusp of their own coming out experience.

"Coming out is not a singular experience," Jaryn told us. "We have to come out over and over again. While I first came out at 14, I’ve had to come out countless times since then—about my gender identity, my evolving understanding of myself, and more."

For Jaryn, the act of coming out wasn't just about sharing their identity—it was a continuous process of self-discovery. "What I'm coming out into at almost 40 is an understanding that I've been doing gender for everyone else. I wasn’t doing it for me." They emphasize that while the journey can be challenging, it’s ultimately about finding peace within ourselves and embracing the life we want to live.

During Suicide Prevention Month, it's essential to understand the unique challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ youth in schools. Learn how educators and families can create inclusive environments to support mental health and reduce the risk of suicide among LGBTQIA+ students.

As Austin Pride lights up the city this August, it’s a perfect moment to reflect on the LGBTQIA+ community's resilience, especially our youth. Pride is more than a celebration—it's a call to action to support the young people navigating their identities. This month, we're highlighting organizations in Austin that play a crucial role in providing the support LGBTQIA+ youth need to thrive. From Out Youth's safe spaces to TENT's advocacy, these groups are the backbone of a caring community. Learn how you can get involved and make a difference.