Gay/Lesbian/Bisexual/Transgender Social Clubs

PS-8000.2500

Organizations that provide an opportunity for gays, lesbians, bisexuals, transgender individuals, intersexed individuals (people born with reproductive organs and/or genitalia that are ambiguous or atypical), cross-dressers and/or individuals who are questioning their gender or sexual orientation to meet and socialize through dances, parties, picnics, barbecues, pride events and other companionable activities. Some clubs may also offer lecture series which address topics of interest to the membership; provide opportunities for involvement in charitable fundraising and other similar activities; or be specifically configured for GLBT individuals with other characteristics e.g., gender questioning youth; Jewish lesbians, Catholic gays or people representative of a particular cultural heritage.

LGBTQ2+ Advocacy Groups

TD-1600.3100-400

Organizations that support the passage and enforcement of laws and other social measures that protect and promote the rights and interests of individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, two-spirit, or otherwise as part of the gender and sexually expansive community.

LGBTQ2+ Community Centers

TC-5500.4000

Multipurpose centers that serve as a meeting place for people who identify as part of the gender and sexually expansive community that includes people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or two-spirit, to grow together, celebrate diversity and increase public understanding. The centers may offer community events, educational programs, counseling, support groups, library resources, recreational programs and other services that support LGBTQ2+ individuals and organizations.

LGBTQ2+ Helplines

RP-1500.1400-400

Programs that provide immediate assistance for individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, two-spirit or as part of other communities such as those in the process of coming out or questioning their sexual orientation or gender identity, and/or their friends and families. Included may be short-term emotional support, resources and community referrals. The service is generally free and confidential and may offer peer support. Helpline staff are generally available via telephone, email, chat and/or text.

LGBTQ2+ Support Groups

PN-8100.4500-400

Mutual support groups whose members identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, two-spirit or as part of other communities such as those in the process of coming out or questioning their sexual orientation or gender identity. Groups may also be structured for parents, children, heterosexual partners or other relatives or significant others. The groups provide an opportunity for members to share their issues and concerns with others in a safe, supportive environment. Meeting formats may include in-person, telephone or Internet options.

Mental Health Crisis Lines

RP-1500.1400-500

Programs that provide immediate assistance for people experiencing a mental health crisis such as a psychotic episode with the objective of defusing the crisis, often working closely with mobile crisis teams on standby, and helping the person develop a plan to link with resources for ongoing assistance, if required. A mental health crisis is a non-life threatening situation in which an individual exhibits extreme emotional disturbance or behavioral distress, is considering harm to him or herself or others, is disoriented or out of touch with reality, has a compromised ability to function, or is otherwise agitated and unable to be calmed. Other common indicators include feelings of intense sadness or depression, sleeping or eating problems, anxiety, severe distress, grief, anger or aggression, scattered, unfocused thinking, self-doubt, loss of motivation, lack of patience or irritability and paranoia. The service is generally available via telephone, email, chat and/or text.