According to the latest Center for Disease Control Youth Risk Behavior Survey, youth who are part of the LGBTQI community are significantly more at risk for struggles with mental health, addiction, homelessness and suicide. Youth who identify as LGBTQI are more likely to be marginalized and to become victims of violence and exploitation
Youth-serving professionals and other adults have a unique opportunity to help alleviate these disparities by creating safe, affirming environments for all youth. This workshop will present a culturally comprehensive approach to understanding the needs of this youth subpopulation and strategies for creating positive relationships and environments that allow them to thrive. Attendees will:
- discuss general cultural competency components;
- identify specific issues of working with the LGBTQ youth population; and
- identify best practices in working with the LGBTQ youth population.