Supporting LGBTQ+ Youth: Free Session for Facilitators

We recognize that coming out regarding sexual or gender identity is a deeply personal journey and it can be a challenging and intimidating process without the proper support. In honor of this significant milestone and as we approach National Coming Out Day on October 11th, OCF is offering a new session titled, “Thinking About Coming Out” designed for facilitators of Girls Circle^®, Unity Circle^®, and The Council for Boys and Young Men^®. 

This valuable resource has been gifted to the Public Domain by One Circle Foundation, allowing you to freely reproduce and distribute it. Download it today. 

This carefully developed session allows you to facilitate thoughtful discussions and activities that will empower youth on their journey of self-discovery, discernment, and potential disclosure. In this session, participants will:  

• Co-develop coping skills: Engage in empowering activities like "Outside & Inside Me" and "Personal Safety Planning and Resource Identification". These activities will help participants develop resilience. 
• Identify common challenges and strengths: Through discussions and shared experiences, participants will identify commonalities faced by youth considering coming out. Together, they will learn from one another's strengths and experiences. 
• Share and receive resources: Participants will have the opportunity to exchange valuable resources to support them on their journey. This sharing of knowledge and support will create a stronger network of allies in your community. 

This supplemental session can be easily "added on" to any of your existing Circle settings whenever the need arises. It includes handouts, additional resources, and engaging warm-up activities.  

Without safe environments, LGBTQ+ youth are at significant risk for poor educational outcomes, mental health conditions, and suicide.  By incorporating the "Thinking About Coming Out" session into your programing, you’re implementing a research-based, recommended strategy* demonstrating a commitment to the celebration and validation of LGBTQ+ youth. 

Thank you for your dedication to providing an inclusive and expansive environment for all youth. Together, we can make a positive impact and support each individual’s unique journey. 

*Samskruthi Madireddy, and Sahithi Madireddy, “Strategies for Schools to Prevent Psychosocial Stress, Stigma, and Suicidality Risks among LGBTQ+ Students.” American Journal of Educational Research, vol. 8, no. 9 (2020): 659-667. doi: 10.12691/education-8-9-7and empowers them to express their authentic selves.