Gender Identity, Gender Expression, & Sexual Orientation
We believe all people should be supported and affirmed in their gender identities, gender expressions, and sexual orientations. Learn more about different identities, supporting people of all identities, and find resources on this page.
Keep Learning!
There are many great online resources about gender and sexuality. Here are some that we like and trust!
Scarleteen
Scarleteen is a great website for all questions about sexual health. Here are some of their best articles about gender and sexuality.
Equality Maps
Learn more about the laws relating to gender and sexuality in different parts of the United States!
Queer and Trans Support Groups & Peer Support
Trans Lifeline
Provides free peer support for trans people, by trans people. They also have great resource directories about mental health, support groups, and resources specifically for young people.
LGBT National Help Center
Provides free & confidential (private) resources for LGBTQ+ people, including young people! They have many resource options:
LGBT National Youth Talkline: 800-246-7743
LGBT National Online Peer-Support Chat: one-on-one peer support through instant message
Youth Chat Rooms: moderated group chat rooms to talk to other LGBTQ+ young people
Q Chat Space
Provides online discussion groups for LGBTQ+ and questioning teens ages 13 to 19. People can chat with like-minded peers in live chats designed for you & by you, facilitated by experienced staff who work at LGBTQ+ centers around the United States.
Gender Spectrum
Provides resources to learn more about gender identity and expression and creates online spaces for transgender, non-binary, and gender-expansive young people to connect with each other safely and for families of trans and non-binary young people to support each other. There are different groups based on age, open to people from ages 10-18.
Resources for Coming Out
Queer- and Trans-Inclusive Health Care Providers
Broadway Youth Center
1023 W. Irving Park Rd
773-388-1600
Lurie Children’s
225 E. Chicago Avenue
1-800-543-7362
Center on Halsted
3656 N. Halsted
773-472-6469 x460
Planned Parenthood
Rogers Park and Near North locations
1-800-230-7526
School-Focused Resources
Illinois Safe Schools Alliance
Action Camp for queer youth, youth leadership opportunities, know your rights trainings
Trans Student Educational Resources
Youth-led organization creating inclusive schools through teacher trainings and youth organizing
GLSEN
Resources and support for students who want to make their school more inclusive through actions, GSAs, and more
Need help now?
Trevor LGBTQ+ Youth Call or Text Line: Call 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678-678
Trans Lifeline: Call 1-877-565-8860
Gay & Lesbian National Hotline: 1-888-843-4564
Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Youth Support Line: 800-850-8078
Gay & Transgender Hate Crime Hotline: 1-800-616-4283
Handouts from Our Classes
(You can click to download!)
