Unlike their heterosexual peers, LGBTQ youth often encounter barriers in accessing traditional support systems and resources. This directory contains information about LGBTQ affirming sources of educational materials, medical and dental providers, mental health services, parent and youth support services, runaway and homeless support, and much more. These resources are specific to the San Fernando Valley and some parts of communities in Los Angeles County.
The Child and Family Guidance Center is a LA County Department of Mental Health (DMH) contractor that provides Specialized Prevention and Early Intervention (PEI) services to children, transition age youth, and adults utilizing evidence-based treatment interventions (EBPs) that are consistent with LAC/DMH Mental Health services Act (MHSA).
The Center also provides families with access to a comprehensive continuum of services depending on the needs of the family ranging from once a week, time limited mental services (PEI) to intensive in-home services that are delivered several times a week with 24-7 availability for crises.
The Community Resource Services is a division dedicated to improving the quality of life for special needs children and their families by helping them to locate, access and effectively use essential community health and social services.
Many young people would benefit from attending community-based peer support groups and some may require professional therapeutic services. This directory serves as a guide, but do not stop here. If unaware of where to start, contact the nearest LGBTQ community center, www.lgbtqcenters.org, or the local PFLAG chapter at www.PFLAG.org.
Reviewed 2023
Diagram of Sex, Gender, & Sexuality
Adapted from “Diagram of Sex & Gender,” Center for Gender Sanity, http://www.gendersanity.com/diagram.shtml
“Normative Man”
“Normative Woman”
Biological Sex (anatomy, chromosomes, hormones)
male intersex female
Gender Identity (psychological sense of self)
man trans/genderqueer/two-spirit/nonbinary woman
Gender Expression (communication of gender)
masculine androgynous feminine
Sexual Orientation (identity of erotic response)
attracted to women bisexual/pansexual/fluid/asexual attracted to men
Sexual Behavior (sexual behavior)
sex with women sex with men & women (or other identities) sex with men
- Biological Sex
Biological Sex refers to the objectively measurable organs, hormones, and chromosomes.
Female = vagina, ovaries, XX chromosomes.
Male = penis, testes, XY chromosomes. Intersex = a combination of the two.
- Gender Identity
Gender identity is how you, in your head, think about yourself. It’s the chemistry that composes you (e.g. hormonal levels) and how you interpret what that means.
- Gender Expression
Gender expression is how you demonstrate your gender (based on traditional gender roles) through the ways you act, dress, behave, and interact.
- Sexual Orientation
Sexual orientation is who you are physically, spiritually, and emotionally attracted to based on the sex gender in relation to your own.
- Sexual Behavior
Sexual behavior encompasses all activities which gratify an individual's sexual needs.
Reviewed 2023
3
California Youth Crisis Line
1(800) 843-5200
www.calyouth.org/ca-youth-crisis-line/
Hotlines
California Youth Crisis Line is a statewide, toll-free, 24hour, confidential, hotline available to teen and young adults 12-24 years of age and/or any adults supporting youth.
LGBT National Resource Hotline
1(888) 843-4564
https://www.lgbthotline.org/national-hotline
Email: help@LGBThotline.org
Confidential peer counseling and information on local resources. Open Monday through Friday 1:00pm9:00pm; Saturday 9:00am-2:00pm.
Youth-Focused Hotline
1(800) 246-7743
www.lgbtholine.org/youthtalkline
Email: help@LGBThotline.org
Monday thru Friday from 1pm to 9pm. Saturday from 9am to 2pm.
The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) Youth Talkline provides telephone, online private oneto-one chat and email peer-support. Services are free and confidential to teens and young adults up to age 25 about coming-out issues, relationship concerns, parent issues, school problems, HIV/AIDS anxiety and safer-sex information.
National Runaway Switchboard
1(800) RUNAWAY / 1(800) 786-2929
www.1800runaway.org
The National Runaway Switchboard is a toll-free crises line operated by Chicago's Metro-Help. It operates twenty-four hours a day designed to serve the needs of at-risk youth Their services are secular (non-religious), non-judgmental, and non-directive. They also offer message-relays (communication between runaways and parents without disclosing location of runaway)
Reviewed 2023
Children of the Night 1(800) 551-1300 www.childrenofthenight.org
Children of the Night is a 24/7 hotline for shelter referrals, counseling or escaping a dangerous situation. Spanish available.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
1(800) 273-TALK (8255) English 1(888) 628-9454 Spanish http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org/ Crisis hotline 24/7, confidential support, resources, and online chat available.
Helpline that offers teen to teen support and guidance. Open 6pm to 10pm Pacific Time, every night. Texting also offered 6pm to 9pm Pacific Time.
The Trevor Project
1(866) 4-U-TREVOR 1(866) 488-7386
www.thetrevorproject.org
The Trevor Project is focused on crisis intervention and suicide prevention to LGBTQ youth. Provides several services including a 24/7 helpline -The Trevor Lifeline, chat/communication services is not just a suicide hotline; they can help with all kinds of issues.
• Trevor chat online available 7 days a week, 24 hours, 365 days a year
Offers support groups for teens, parents, and friends.
Somos Familia Valle means: We're a Valley Family organization that empowers, trains, and mobilizes the (LGBTQ) community and its supporters for racial, gender, environmental, and economic justice.
Family Acceptance Workshop
Trainings: Second Saturday of every month from 5:00pm to 7:00pm
Hosting Venue:14624 Sherman Way, Unit 408
Van Nuys, CA 91405
Conversations about Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer child development, gender identity, gender expression, sex, and sexual orientation
The Village Family Services - TAY Drop-in Center
6801 Coldwater Canyon Avenue North Hollywood, CA 91605 (818) 755-8786
Email: Drop-in@thevillagefs.org
Located at Valley Community Healthcare, entrance is at back west side of the building. They offer activities, counseling, and support groups Empowering at-risk, foster, LGBTQ and homeless youth ages 14-25.
Saturday and Sunday 9:00am-3:00pm (Walk-ins welcome)
LGBTQ+ Youth Council Program
Meetings: First and Third Saturdays of the month from 5:00pm-7:00pm. Se habla español.
Hosting Venue: ZOOM
Join San Fernando Valley (LGBTQ+) youth and straight peers (ages 12-17) to share experiences in a safe, supportive, and bilingual environment. Members engage and develop one another through courageous conversations, activities about self-determination, wellness education, liberation art, and community decision-making.
Project Q at The Village Family Services 6801 Coldwater Canyon Avenue North Hollywood, CA 91605 (818)755-8786
www.thevillagefs.org
Email: projectQ@thevillagefs.org
They provide supportive services aimed at lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning youth. Project Q provides individual and group services for youth 14-21 years of age. The service provides small-group support in dealing with issues that are often related to the coming-out process such as family rejection, stigmatization, isolation and abuse. Project Q is open to youth who are interested in sharing feelings in a supportive group atmosphere.
LGBTQ Youth Peer Group
Meetings: Gathers weekly every Thursday from 4:00pm-6:00pm. Registration is not required. Group gathers for outreach, empowerment and peer support.
Reviewed 2023
Bienestar
8551 Vesper Avenue
Panorama City, CA 91402 (866) 590-6411
www.bienestar.org
It is a social services organization that primarily targets the Latino and underserved communities promoting their health and well-being through several impacting services: health education, HIV prevention and testing, counseling, mental health services, housing assistance, and substance abuse guidance. Services offered in both English and Spanish. Support groups also offered.
Offers several programs to help LGBTQ community: Career Development, education helps LGBTQ obtain scholarships or grants, and Workshops Offers Counseling, community events safe for LGBTQ, Arts Education Program and youth conference meetings to voice their concerns and community leaders can advocate and help resolve the issue/concern.
Strenght United / CSUN
LGBTQIA+
Sexual Assault Survivor’s Group 14651 Oxnard Street
Van Nuys, CA 91411 (818) 886-0453 Hotline 24/7 (818) 787-9700
Psychoeducation and learning about: coping skills, PTSD and trauma, compassionate self-talk, finding meaning and healing, healthy boundaries and relationships. 18+ English group.
Meetings: Tuesdays 6:00pm-8:00pm
LifeWorks
L.A. Gay and Lesbian Center
The Village at Ed Gould Plaza 1125 N. Mccadden Place Los Angeles, CA 90038 (323) 860-7373
www.lifeworksla.org lifeworks@lalgbtcenter.org
LifeWorks is the youth development and mentoring program of the LA Gay & Lesbian Center. They offer one on one peer, and group mentoring opportunities for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and questioning youth ages 12-24. Primary services are in Los Angeles, but they offer mentors in the San Fernando Valley.
(Located in the University Student Union on the 2nd Floor between the Student Recreation Center and the USU Computer Lab)
The Pride Center supports lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LGBTQ) and questioning students, faculty and staff through programming and educational outreach to improve the campus climate for LGBTQ individuals as well as advocate for the respect and safety of all members of the campus community.
Peer Mentor Program
The LGBTQ Peer Mentors are CSUN students. They offer support, encouragement and resources to students only as they explore their personal and academic interests and find their own sense of community and identity.
Serving LGBTQ+ children, youth, young adults, and their families. While Kaleidoscope serves all LGBTQ+ individuals, this program also specializes in working with individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, LD and social and emotional challenges and their families. Services:
-Support, advocacy, and education
-Social events, social clubs, and community engagement
-Resources and referrals
-Training for community partners
-Individual, group, and family counseling
-Vocational Training, Individual Life skills coaching
-School programs
-ASD Diagnostic evaluations
Los Angeles County Regional Center
9200 Oakdale Avenue
Chatsworth, CA 91311 (818) 778-1900
Contact: (818)264-4750 (Arvar)
Services:
-Directed to LGBTQ and Trans Specialist
-Assist case management with clients who are LGBTQ+ youth
-Provides support for elevated risk cases for all ages
-Closer contact, advocacy with clients one-on-one
-Connect clients to resources outside of regional center
-Community integration and support
Reviewed 2023
LAGC- Los Angeles Gender Center 1923 Westwood Boulevard Los Ángeles, CA 90025 (310) 475-8880
staff@lagendercenter.com www.Lagendercenter.com
LAGC specialize in gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, sexuality, relationships, and intimacy. Provides culturally sensitive therapy and counseling for transgender individuals and communities. They also have a free support group, every 2nd Sunday of the month. Services available on Zoom.
Children's Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA)
4650 Sunset Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90027 (323) 660-2450
Center for Trans Youth Health and Development (323) 361-2153
Email: ctyhd@chla.usc.edu
-Gender-affirming medical treatment and mental health services
-Family support services and linkage to outside resources
-Case management services, including assistance with legal name and gender marker changes
-Peer Support groups
-Sexual health education including groups, one-on-one navigation services and HIV/STD (Sexually Transmitted Disease) screening and treatment.
-Access to PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) and PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) for HIV prevention.
-Voluntary participation in ground breaking research
Health
Olive View - UCLA Medical Center 14445 Olive View Drive Sylmar, CA 91342 (747) 210-3000 General Information (747) 210-8000 Make an Appointment
Email: OVMLGBTQ@dhs.lacounty.gov https://dhs.lacounty.gov/oliveview/patientvisitors/lgbtq-health-information/ Urgent Care
Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00am to 8:00pm Saturday 8:00am to 4:00pm
Valley Teen Clinic
6801 Coldwater Canyon Avenue
North Hollywood, CA 91605 (888) 763-4070 Appointment Line (818) 763-8836 Primary Care www.teen411.com
Email: mail@teen411.com
Safe, comfortable health clinic for teens ages 12-19 run by a trained and certified staff of peers and licensed medical professionals.
Valley Community Healthcare (818) 763-8836 Appointments www.valleycommunityhealthcare.org
Valley Community Healthcare provides general medical care, dental, optometry, women’s health, prenatal care, pediatrics, teen health, behavioral health services, and longer-term counseling.
Delivers vital reproductive health care, sex education, and information to millions of women, men, and youth worldwide. Please call to find out the nearest center to you.
Olive View - UCLA Medical Center are committed to providing high - q uality, compassionate and inclusive healthcare to the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and Questioning (LGBTQ+) patients and their families. They understand how important it is to receive healthcare in a setting where the patient feels comfortabl e, open and safe with their provider team. They have LGBTQ+ Friendly Providers in the following health departments: Emergency Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Endocrinology, Medicine, Pediatrics, Psychiatry, Department of Rehabilitation, and Surgery
Children's Hospital Los Angeles
4650 Sunset Boulevard, MS #138
Los Angeles, CA 90027 (323) 660-2450 www.chla.org
Children’s Hospital is one of the finest pediatric medical centers in the nation. They provide a variety of emotional and psychological support services, such as the Child Life Program and the Mark Taper-Johnny Mercer Artists Program. Services: Medical Care, Hormone treatments, mental health, case management and HIV prevention.
North Hills Wellness Center 9119 Haskell Avenue North Hills, CA 91343
North Hollywood Wellness Center 6801 Coldwater Canyon Avenue North Hollywood, CA 91605
School Based Clinic – Kennedy High School 11254 Gothic Avenue Granada Hills, CA 91344 (818) 271-2547
Canoga Park Health Center 21001 Sherman Way #9 Canoga Park, CA 91303 (818) 270-9777
Van Nuys Health Center 7100 Van Nuys Boulevard #108 Van Nuys, CA 91405
Burbank Health Center 916 W Burbank Boulevard #M Burbank, CA 91506
Reviewed 2023
AIDS Project Los Angeles
7336 Bellaire Avenue
North Hollywood, CA 91605
(213) 201-1433
www.aplahealth.org
They provide many healthcare services (primary care, dental care, counseling, STD testing, insurance enrollment, etc.). They also provide Prevention and Health Education as well as HIV support services. Various locations. It is only open Thursday 10:00am to 4:30pm.
Community Clinic Association of Los Angeles County, Union Bank Plaza
4455 Figueroa Street #2100
Los Angeles, CA 90017
(213) 201-6500
https://ccalac.org/
They provide a range of medical and mental health services through out Los Angeles County. On the upper right-hand corner of their website, click the button that says “Find Clinic” just enter your zip code and it locates all the clinics within your area.
What is an Ally?
Someone who confronts heterosexism, homophobia, transphobia, biphobia and heterosexual privilege in themselves and others out of a concern for the wellbeing of LGBTQ people and a belief that heterosexism is a social justice issue.
Allies...
• Refuse to tolerate anti-LGBTQ comments, attitudes, remarks or jokes
• Report all harassment or discriminatory behavior to the appropriate officials
• Do not assume that everyone is heterosexual or cisgender
• Use inclusive, non-gender specific language that does not assume heterosexuality in others
Ways to Be an Ally
• Be a listener
• Be open-minded
• Be willing to talk
• Be inclusive and invite LGBTQ friends to hang out with your friends and family
• Don’t assume that all of your friends and co-workers are straight. Someone close to you could be looking for support in their coming-out process.
• Not making assumptions will give them the space they need
• Homophobic, biphobic and transphobic comments and jokes are harmful. Let your friends, family and co-workers know that you find them offensive.
• Confront your own prejudices and phobias, even if it is uncomfortable to do so
• Defend your LGBTQ friends against discrimination
• Believe that all people, regardless of gender identity and sexual orientation, should be treated with dignity and respect
Reviewed 2023
Housing
LGBTQ youth are at higher risk than heterosexual peers of being told to leave their family’s home or feeling the need that they need to leave. Once out of the home LGBTQ youth are likely to end up on the streets and homeless, oftentimes due to the hostile environments they face in foster care or group homes (Ray, 2006). LGBTQ youth make up 11-35% of all homeless and runaway youth.
LGBTQ – 211 Los Angeles County https://www.211la.org
211 LA County is Los Angeles County’s information and referral service, offering confidential services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in English, Spanish and over 140 more languages. Services are also available to individuals with hearing impairments.
Covenant House California 1325 N. Western Avenue Hollywood, CA 90027 (323) 461-3131
www.covenanthousecalifornia.org
Email: info@covenathousecalifornia.org
They offer a live-in facility for LGBT homeless youth (18-24 years old) Services provided are short- and longterm housing, meals, health and medical services, mental health services, substance abuse counseling, recreation and employment opportunities.
Youth Emerging Stronger (YES) 1754 Taft Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90028 (323) 467-8466
Activities: Vocational Support; Education Support; Art and Fitness Classes; Life-skills Training; Counseling Services; Peer and Support Groups; Anger Management Groups; LGBTQ Support; Housing Referral; Substance Abuse Recovery Referral; Supportive Services for Homeless Youth.
Children of the Night 14530 Sylvan Street Van Nuys, CA 91411 1(800) 551-1300 / (818) 908-4476 TTY Hotline (818) 908-4474
www.childrenofthenight.org
Their hotline is ready and able to rescue children 24 hours a day. They provide free taxi/airline transportation nationwide for all children who wish to escape prostitution and live in a home. Offer shelter referrals, free online GED classes, and counseling.
Youth Center of Highland 1220 N. Highland Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90038 (323) 860-2280
www.lagaycenter.org
Email: youthservices@lagaycenter.org
Monday through Friday: 8:30am to 5:30pm Saturday and Sunday: 8:30am to 4:00pm
It is a drop-in center for LGBTQ youth that provides case management, support groups, meals, clothing, laundry, computer access and an educational/GED preparation center. Residential program for youth 18-28 years old.
Coming Out
Refers to the process by which one accepts his or her sexuality/gender identity (to “come out” to one’s self). Also, it refers to the process by which one shares their sexuality/gender identity with others (to “come out” to friends, etc.).
Tips for Coming Out
• Be patient with yourself. It’s not necessary to tell everyone at once. Come out when you are ready.
• Start small. It can be easier to start by telling friends than by telling family.
• Find allies in your family. If you think a brother or sister will be easier to tell, start there.
• Develop a support network of friends who are accepting and supportive.
• Be positive. When you come out to someone, you set the tone.
• Use resources or find a mentor to talk to.
• Be patient with others. Some people take longer to digest or accept the information presented to them than others. Realize that they may need some time to adjust.
• Assess the situation. If you’re unsure of your own sexual orientation or gender identity, find someone who can help support you during this time.
• Ask LGBTQ friends to share their coming out stories.
• Refer parents and friends to Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) or other resources that might help.
• Be prepared for both positive and negative reactions.
Tips for When Someone Comes Out to You
• Be patient. Allow them to tell you at their own pace. Let them determine what is needed.
• Commit yourself as an ally. Let them know that you are accepting.
• Don’t push. A person who is coming out may have a hard time talking about it. Don’t force them to disclose anything.
• Keep their confidence and respect their privacy.
• Acknowledge the risk they took by coming out to you. Compliment their courage.
• Don’t minimize the importance of what they did by saying, “It doesn’t matter to me.”
• Instead say, “Thank you for trusting me.” Or, “It doesn’t change how I feel about you.” Or discuss how it might change things in a positive way.
• Ask, “How can I support you?”
• Don’t ask: Are you hot for me? What made you this way? Is it just a phase?
Legal Issues
L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center Legal Clinic 1625 Schrader Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90028 (323) 993-7400
www.laglc.org/legalservices
Email: legalservices@lagaycenter.org
They offer one-on-one attorney consultations on a no/or low-cost basis on a wide range of legal issues, including business, civil rights, consumer criminal, employment, family, government benefits, immigration, insurance, landlord/tenant issues, personal injury, and wills and estates. They request a $10 processing fee, but no one will be denied services for lack of funds.
Legal Action Workshop (L.A.W.)
417A North Glendale Avenue Glendale, CA 91206
(818) 246-0073
(800) HELP-444 / (800) 435-7444
www.LAWorkshop.com
L.A.W. provides legal services at an affordable cost. Licensed attorneys assist you with your case from beginning to end. Their services include: divorce, child support, paternity, restraining orders, adoption, name change, guardianships, bankruptcy, personal injury, tenant defense, and criminal.
Family Violence Prosecution Unit
Hydee Feldstein Soto, Los Angeles City Attorney
James K. Hahn City Hall East, Suite 800 Los Angeles, CA 90012 (213) 978-8100
Emial: hydee.feldsteinsoto@lacity.org
The Los Angeles City Attorney created a special unit to recognize the seriousness of domestic violence. In addition to prosecutors, Victim Advocates are available to explain court proceedings, inform you of the progress of the case, help you contact domestic violence centers for a safe place to stay, or to find someone to talk to about your situation
Lambda Legal Western Regional Office
800 South Figueroa Street, Suite 1260
Los Angeles, CA 90010 (213) 382-7600
www.lambdalegal.org
It is the oldest and largest national legal organization whose mission is to achieve full recognition of the civil rights of lesbians, gay, bisexuals, transgender people and those with HIV through impact litigation, education and public policy work.
American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) – Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Project www.aclu.org/lgbt-rights
The mission of ACLU LGBTQ Project is the creation of a society in which lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people enjoy the constitutional rights of equality, privacy and personal autonomy, and freedom of expression and association.
Hurriet Buhai Center for Family Law
3250 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite #710 Los Angeles, CA 90010 (213) 388-7515
www.hbcfl.org
This is a non-profit corporation that provides Family Law and domestic violence assistance to low-income individuals in Los Angeles. The focus is on legal problems involving custody, visitation and support of children, domestic violence, and paternity.
They also have a Domestic Violence Project, which provides intensive, ongoing legal assistance to victims of domestic abuse who are living at short and long-term shelters. Please call to schedule an appointment. There is a one-time fee of $20.
2023
San Fernando Neighborhood Legal Services 13327 Van Nuys Boulevard Pacoima, CA 91331 (800) 433-6251
www.nls-la.org
They provide free legal services and assistance to low income people in the following areas: Domestic Violence Advocacy, Immigration (V.A.W.A., U-Visa), Denial of Government Funding, Landlord/tenant problems, Custody issues, Divorce and Name Change. They also have Self-Help Centers and Clinics at the following locations:
San Fernando Courthouse 900 Third Street, Room #1026 San Fernando, CA 91340 (818) 898-2676
www.lasuperiorcourt.org
Service Hours: Monday-Friday 9:00am-1:00pm
Burbank Courthouse
300 East Olive, Room #225 Burbank, CA 91502 (818) 260-8498
www.lasuperiorcourt.org
Service Hours: Monday-Friday 9:00am-1:00pm
Van Nuys East Courthouse 6230 Sylmar Avenue, Room #212A Van Nuys, CA 91401 (818) 901-4799
www.lasuperiorcourt.org
Service Hours: Monday-Friday 9:00am-1:00pm
Antelope Valley Courthouse 42011 4th Street West Lancaster, CA 93534 (661) 483-5536 www.lasuperiourcourt.org
Service Hours: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday 9:00am-1:00pm
Welcoming and Affirming Places of Worship
Beth Chayim Chadashim-House of New Life 6090 West Pico Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90035 (323) 290-6139
www.bcc-la.org/ A Reformed Jewish Temple. BCC is an inclusive community of progressive lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and heterosexual Jews Offers LGBTQ Jewish programing
Christ Chapel of the Valley 11316 West Magnolia Boulevard North Hollywood, CA 91601 Sun Valley, CA 91352 (818) 358-3027 www.christchapel.com/ Non-denominational. Offers Bible study.
Prince of Peace Lutheran Church 9440 Balboa Boulevard Northridge, CA 91325 (818) 886-1324 http://princeofpeacenorthridge.org/site/ns/Index.asp Offer youth bible studies.
St. Jane Frances De Chantal Parish 13001 Victory Boulevard North Hollywood, CA 91606 (818) 985-8600 www.stjanefrancesparish.org Catholic-Christian community. English and Spanish services.
Reviewed 2023
Church of the Valley 6565 Vesper Avenue Van Nuys, CA 91411 (818) 786-4070 www.covtoday.org/
Kirk of The Valley Presbyterian Church and Schools 19620 Vanowen Street Reseda, CA 91335 (818) 345-2535 www.kirkval.org/html/kirkhome.html
MCC in the Valley 5730 Cahuenga Boulevard North Hollywood, CA 91601 (818) 762-1133 www.mccinthevalley.com/ Founded to serve LGBT community.
St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church 3646 Coldwater Canyon Avenue Studio City, CA 91604 (818) 763-9193 www.stmikessc.org/
Muslims for Progressive Values – LGBTQ Rights 1465 Tamarind Ave #702 Los Angeles, CA 90028 (323) 696-2678 www.mpvusa.org/lgbtqi-resources Their mission is to embody and be an effective voice of the traditional Quranic ideals of human dignity, egalitarianism, compassion and social justice.
St. Luke Lutheran 5312 Comercio Way Woodland Hills, CA 91365 (818) 346-3070 http://www.stlukelutheran.com/
Saint Mark’s Episcopal Church 1020 North Brand Avenue Glendale, CA 91202 (818) 240-3860 www.stmarks.la
Saint Matthew’s Lutheran Church-North Hollywood 11031 Camarillo Street North Hollywood, CA 91602 (818) 762-2909 www.stmatthewsnoho.org/
Affirmation-Gay & Lesbian Mormons www.affirmation.org Support LGBTQ Mormons, their families, and allies by encouraging spirituality, providing information about resources, and working for inclusiveness and equality.
The agencies on this document are listed for informational purposes only. No endorsement of the quality of services is intended by Community Resource Services of the Child and Family Guidance Center.
Reviewed 2023
What is Inclusive Language?
Inclusive language is a way of acknowledging and respecting the diversity of bodies, genders and relationships. People express their gender and sexuality in different ways. People can have different biological sex characteristics.
Inclusive language ensures we don’t leave people out of our conversations or our work. This includes both when we are communicating directly with someone, and when describing someone who isn’t present. Inclusive language acknowledges the diversity of people we work with and serve.
Tips for Inclusive Language:
1. If someone discloses to you that they’re from one of the LGBTQ communities, respectfully ask what terms they use to describe themselves, then use those terms.
2. Don’t question or make assumptions about someone’s gender, sexuality or relationship. Accept and respect how people define their gender and sexuality.
3. Use language that acknowledges that we have diverse relationships and families. This can mean using words like “partner” or “parents”, particularly when describing groups of people.
Tips for using Pronouns:
1. Pronouns are one-way people refer to each other and themselves. Most but not all men (including trans men) use the pronoun ‘he’. Likewise, most but not all women (including trans women) use the pronoun ‘she’. Some people use a gender-neutral pronoun such as ‘they’.
2. If you’re unsure what someone’s pronoun is, you can ask them respectfully, and preferably privately. Use a question like: “Can I ask what pronoun you use?” Do not ask “What pronoun do you prefer?” A person’s pronoun and identity are not a preference. Instead, just ask what pronoun they use.
3. Some people’s pronouns may be context-specific. For example, someone might not use their pronoun in a particular environment or around particular people because they do not feel safe or comfortable to do so.
Gay and Lesbian Medical Association www.glma.org (833) 456-2202
Useful Websites
The GLMA is the world’s largest association of LGBTQ health care professionals. Their mission is to ensure equality in health care for LGBTQ individuals and health providers.
American Civil Liberties Union
National office on LGBTQ Rights www.aclu.org/lgbt-rights
LGBTQ Students Know Your Rights-English www.aclu.org/issues/lgbt/asset upload file675 8966.pdf
LGBTQ Students Know Your Rights-Spanish www.aclu.org/issues/lgbt/asset upload file384 8966.pdf
COLAGE: People with a Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender or Queer Parent www.colage.org
855-4-COLAGE
COLAGE is a national movement of children, youth, and adults with one or more lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and/or queer (LGBTQ) parent/s. They work toward social justice through youth empowerment, education, leadership, and advocacy.
Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network www.GLSEN.org
GLSEN is focused on promoting anti-bullying of LGBT in schools and their community. Offer National student council open to all youth enrolled in high school. They have clubs in Los Angeles.
Family Acceptance Project
http://familyproject.sfsu.edu
They are using the first evidence-based family model of wellness, prevention and care to strengthen families and promote positive development of LGBTQ children.
LA LGBTQ Youth Calendar www.lalgbtyac.org
Includes LGBT and straight ally organizations, established with solid reputations as representing LGBTQ youth in LA County at the local, county, state and national level.
Family Equality Council www.familyequality.org
They work to connect, support and represent the one million LGBTQ parents in this country and the two million children they are raising.
Gay-Straight Alliance Network www.gsanetwork.org
This is a youth leadership organization that connects school-based GSA to each other and community resources through peer support, leadership development and training. GSA clubs bring together gay an straight students to break down homophobia and transphobia to make safer school communities.
Gender Spectrum provides education, training and support to help create a gender sensitive and inclusive environment for all children and teens.
Immigration Equality www.immigrationequality.org
This organization is the first in the US dedicated exclusively to achieving full equality for LGBTQ and HIV-positive immigrants. Provides legal services.
Jewish Queer Youth www.jqyouth.org
This is a social and support group for the modern orthodox, yeshivish, chasidish, and traditionalconservative Jewish LGBTQ community, ages 17-30.
LA Gay and Lesbian Center Family Services (323) 993-7430 www.lagaycenter.org
Empower people to lead full and rewarding lives without limits based on sexual orientation and gender identity, by providing the highest quality educational, cultural, and wellness programs to residents of Los Angeles County.
Reviewed 2023
The National Coalition for LGBTQ Health www.healthhiv.org
The coalition is committed to improve the health and well-being of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals through federal advocacy that is focused on research, policy, education, and training.
Sex, etc. www.sexetc.org
Sex, etc. is on a mission to improve teen sexual health across the country! They have an LGBTQ specific section: www.sexetc.org/topic/lgbtq
LA County LGBT Child Abuse Prevention Council www.preventlgbtchildabuse.org E-mail: info@preventlgbtchildabuse.org
Promote the safety and well-being of LGBTQ youth and children and facilitate their transition to early adulthood by educating communities, parents, families, caregivers, and mandated reporters about sexual orientation and gender identity.
Latino Equality Alliance | Allianza Latina Por La Igualdad www.latinoequalityalliance.com
The Latino Equality Alliance (LEA) is a broad-based coalition made up of organizations serving LGBT Latino populations, ally organizations and individuals deeply rooted in both the LGBTQ and Latino communities. Priority Issues: Marriage Equality, Immigration Reform and Family Acceptance. LEA's mission is to promote liberty, equality, and justice for the Latino LGBTQ community.
Parents, Family & Friends of Lesbians and Gays (888) PFLAG88 / 1(888) 735-2488 www.pflagla.com
PFLAG is a national non-profit organization that promotes the health and well-being of LGBTQ people and their families and friends. Spanish support groups available
Teen Source www.teensource.org
An online resource to improve the health and well-being of young people in California by providing nonjudgmental, accurate, and reliable sexual and reproductive health information and resources. You can also find a clinic for testing via their website.
TransYouth Family Allies www.imatyfa.org 1(888) 462-8932
TransYouth Family Allies provides online resources for parents, youth, educators, and healthcare practitioners to develop supportive environments in which gender may be expressed and respected. Spanish online resources are also available
The Trevor Project www.thetrevorproject.org 1-866-4-U-TREVOR
The Trevor Project is focused on crisis intervention and suicide prevention to LGBTQ youth. Provides several services including a helpline The Trevor Lifeline, chat/communication services also involved in public policy advocacy and research.
Point Foundation:
The National LGBTQ Scholarship Fund www.pointfoundation.org
Point Foundation (Point) is the nation’s largest scholarship-granting organization for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) students of merit. Point promotes change through scholarship funding, mentorship, leadership development, and community service training.
Reviewed 2023
LGBTQ Glossary of Terms
- Ally Any heterosexual person who opposes heterosexism and homophobia and actively supports LGBT individuals and causes.
- Androgynous
Used to describe a person's appearance or clothing as having elements of both femininity and masculinity
- Asexual
Having no evident sex or sex organs. In usage, may refer to a person who is not sexually active, or not sexually attracted to other people.
- Bisexual
A person who has significant romantic, emotional, physical and sexual attractions to members of both sexes. The frequency, intensity, or quality of attraction is not necessarily directed toward both sexes equally
- Biphobia
Fear of bisexuals, often based on stereotypes, including inaccurate associations with infidelity, promiscuity and transmission of sexually transmitted diseases.
- Cisgender
A term used to describe those who are not-transgender; having a gender identity or performing in gender roles that society considers appropriate for one’s sex.
- Cisgender Privilege
Refers to the rights and benefits automatically granted to cisgender people that are denied to transgender, genderqueer, or gender variant people.
- Civil Union
State-Based Relationship recognition for gay and lesbian couples that offers some or all of the state (though none of the federal) rights, protections and responsibilities of marriage.
- Coming Out
Coming to terms with one’s sexual or gender identity. It can also mean stating openly that one is gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender. The term is usually applied to members of the LGBTQ community, but heterosexual people can experience a similar process of coming to terms with their sexual orientation and/or their identity as an ally.
- Cross-Dressing
To occasionally wear clothes traditionally associated with people of the opposite sex. Cross-dressers are usually comfortable with the sex they were assigned at birth and do not want to change it. Cross-dressing is a form of gender expression and is not necessarily tied to erotic activity. Cross-dressing is not indicative of sexual orientation.
- Fluid
A form of gender identity or gender expression, rather than a sexual orientation. Fluid relates to how a person identifies themselves internally and presents themselves to the world. A person who is gender fluid may identify as male one day, female the next, both male and female, or neither.
- FTM
Female-to-male. Indicates a transgender individual who was originally assigned the gender of female at birth, but has claimed a male identity through clothing, surgery, or attitude changes.
- Gay
A man whose primary romantic, emotional, physical and sexual attraction are to other men. This term can also apply to lesbians, bisexuals, and on some occasions, be used as an umbrella term for all LGBTQ people.
- Gender Binary System
A system of oppression that requires everyone to be raised either male or female, and masculine or feminine. Eliminates the possibility for other gender expressions, and gives power to people whose genders do not break gender norms at the expense of transgender and intersex people.
2023
- Gender Dysphoria
The feeling of discomfort or distress that might occur in people whose gender identity differs from their sex assigned at birth or sex-related physical characteristics.
- Gender Expression
External manifestation of one’s gender identity, usually expressed through “masculine,” “feminine” or gendervariant behavior, clothing, haircut, voice or body characteristics. Typically, transgender people seek to make their gender expression match their gender identity, rather than their birth-assigned sex.
- Gender Identity
How one thinks of one’s own gender. This conviction is not entirely contingent upon the individual’s biological sex
- Gender-neutral
Non-discriminatory language to describe relationships; i.e. “spouse” and “partner” instead of “husband”, “wife”, “boyfriend” or “girlfriend ”
- Gender Non-Conforming
Refers to people who do not adhere to society’s rules about dress and activities for people that are based on their sex. A gender non-conforming person may choose to present as neither clearly male, nor clearly female, but rather as a gender-free individual.
- Genderqueer
A rejection of the gender binary (male/female) in favor of a more fluid, non-traditional identity.
- Heterosexism
The system of oppression that reinforces the belief in the inherent superiority of heterosexuality and heterosexual relationships, thereby negating gays’, lesbians’, and bisexuals’ lives and relationships
- Heterosexual
A person who is emotionally, romantically, sexually attracted or committed to members of the opposite sex, i.e. Straight
- Heterosexual Privilege
The society assumption and norm that all people are heterosexual. The basic civil rights and social privileges that a heterosexual person automatically receives, that are systematically denied to gay, lesbian, or bisexual persons, simply because of their sexual orientation.
- Homophobia
Negative feelings, attitudes, actions or behaviors towards anyone who is lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender, or perceived to identify as any of the above.
- Internalized Homophobia
Fear of same-sex tendencies within oneself which can lead to repression.
- Homosexual
A person who is sexually attracted to people of their own sex.
- Homosexuality
Defines attraction to the same sex, and is one orientation on the continuum for homosexual to bisexual to heterosexual. Many prefer the terms “gay”, “lesbian”, or “bisexual” to describe their identities.
- Intersex
Describes a person whose biological sex is ambiguous. There are many genetic, hormonal or anatomical variations that make a person’s sex ambiguous (e.g., Llinefelter Syndrome). Parents and medical professionals usually assign intersex infants a sex and perform surgical operations to confirm the infant’s body to that assignment. This practice has become increasingly controversial as intersex adults speak out against the practice. The term intersex is not interchangeable with or synonym for transgender.
- Lambda
The Gay Activist Alliance originally chose the lambda, the Greek letter “L” as a symbol in 1970 to signify liberation. The work has become a way of expression the concept “lesbian and gay” in a minimum of syllables has been adopted by such organizations as Lambda Legal Defense and Education Fund.
- LGBTIQQ
The acronym for “Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex, Queer and Questioning Community”.
- MTF
Male-to-female. Indicates a transgender individual who was originally assigned the gender of male at birth, but has claimed a female identity through clothing, surgery, or attitude changes.
- Non-binary
Identify as an intermediate or separate third gender, identify with more than one gender, no gender, or have a fluctuating gender identity
- Openly Gay
Describes people who self-identify as lesbian or gay in their personal, public and/or professional lives. Also, openly lesbian, openly bisexual, openly transgender.
- Outing
The act of publicly declaring or revealing another person’s sexual orientation or gender identity without that person’s consent. Considered inappropriate by the LGBT community.
- Pansexual
A person who is fluid in sexual orientation and/or gender or sex identity; they can be attracted to another person of any sexual orientation or gender identity.
- Pronouns
Linguistic tools that we use to refer to people, such as they/them/theirs, she/her/hers, he/him/his Someone's pronouns inform us how to best refer to and honor them.
- Queer
1) Can be used as an umbrella term to refer to all LGBTQ people. 2) Can be a political statement, as well as a sexual orientation, which advocates breaking binary thinking and seeing sexual orientation and gender identity as fluid. 3) A simple label to explain a complex set or sexual behaviors and desires. For example, a person who is attracted to multiple genders may identify as queer. 4) Originally a synonym for “odd”, this word became a derogatory expression for gays in the 20th century. Despite this, a movement emerged in the 1980s that called itself queer and now LGBTQ people are reclaiming the term. 5) In academic circles, the term “queer” often refers to the approaches and sensibilities of queer theory.
- Sexual Orientation
How one thinks of oneself in terms of whom one is sexually or romantically attracted. Orientation is not dependent on physical experience, but rather on a person’s feelings and attractions.
- Sex Reassignment Surgery
Refers to surgical alteration, and is only one small part of transition. Preferred term to “sex change operation”. Not all transgender people choose to or can afford to have SRS. Journalists should avoid overemphasizing the role of SRS in the transition process.
- Two-Spirit
A person who identifies as having both a masculine and a feminine spirit, and is used by some Indigenous people to describe their sexual, gender and/or spiritual identity.
- Transgender
Used both as an umbrella term and as an identity. Broadly, it refers to those who do not identify or are uncomfortable with their assigned gender and gender roles. As an identity the term refers to anyone who transgresses traditional sex and gender categories.
- Transition
A complex process by which transgender people align their anatomy (medical transition) and gender expression (social transition) with their gender identity. Transitioning is a multiple-step process that occurs over a long period of time. It can include such steps as using a different name, using new pronouns, dressing differently, updating legal documents, hormone therapy and surgery. The exact steps involved in a person’s transition varies.
