A PLACE WHERE IT'S OK2BU

The Attic Youth Center’s mission is to create opportunities for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and Questioning (LGBTQ) youth to develop into healthy, independent, civic-minded adults within a safe and supportive community and to promote the acceptance of LGBTQ youth in society.

Many LGBTQ youth continue to experience prejudice and oppression in their daily lives, which often leaves youth feeling isolated and vulnerable. The Attic community helps provide youth with a sense of belonging, connection, and understanding.

The Attic offers a wide range of programs and services designed to provide youth with the support and skills needed to transition into independent, thriving adults. The Attic strives to have a positive impact on all aspects of youth’s lives; to facilitate growth, empowerment, and resiliency; and to help youth find their voice, which is often silenced.

A PLACE WHERE IT'S OK2BU

The Attic Youth Center’s mission is to create opportunities for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and Questioning (LGBTQ) youth to develop into healthy, independent, civic-minded adults within a safe and supportive community and to promote the acceptance of LGBTQ youth in society.

Many LGBTQ youth continue to experience prejudice and oppression in their daily lives, which often leaves youth feeling isolated and vulnerable. The Attic community helps provide youth with a sense of belonging, connection, and understanding.

The Attic offers a wide range of programs and services designed to provide youth with the support and skills needed to transition into independent, thriving adults. The Attic strives to have a positive impact on all aspects of youth’s lives; to facilitate growth, empowerment, and resiliency; and to help youth find their voice, which is often silenced.

Please consider supporting Philadelphia’s only LGBTQIA+ Youth Center.

Our youth are facing monumental oppressors, from anti-trans legislation to high levels of housing insecurity. The Attic provides a safe space for our youth to be themselves, where they can build community and it’s #OK2BU.

Help us build a safer, more inclusive community for LGBTQIA+ youth by donating today.

The Attic’s Bryson Institute delivers customized workshops and trainings on best practices for working with LGBTQ youth in schools, in workplaces, and within organizations.

Program Schedule

News

City council adopts resolutions to protect LGBTQ+ Philadelphians

Jasper Liem, executive director of the Attic Youth Center, was given an embossed copy of the resolutions. He spoke about the negative mental health impact of anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric and anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, even when that legislation doesn’t directly affect the rights of people in Pennsylvania or Philadelphia.

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With Donald Trump’s declared victory as United States President elect, we face an outcome that threatens the safety and dignity of LGBTQ+ youth across our nation. This outcome brings forth a wave of fear and uncertainty as we brace for even more policies that encourage and legalize discrimination against marginalized communities.

It is OK to worry about ourselves and our loved ones. It is OK to be in shock. It is OK to be angry. It is OK to despair. We must remember that as long as we are here and alive, there is hope. We must remember to fight for our lives and our families.

The reality is stark: LGBTQ+ youth are at risk of losing vital protections, access to medical and mental health care, resources, and affirming spaces that are essential for their growth and well-being. Despite the many basic rights already won by leaders past and present, LGBTQ+ youth continue to navigate a world filled with challenges. This election result may deepen our struggles, pushing youth further into isolation and fear.

At The Attic Youth Center, we refuse to be silent or forced back into closets. More than ever, our doors remain open as a beacon of hope and resilience. Our commitment to providing a brave space and empowering LGBTQ+ youth remains unwavering. The Attic will continue to offer the support, guidance, and community they desperately need during these tumultuous times.

We call on our allies, advocates, and community members to join us in this fight. Together, we must take a stand against any attempts to roll back our hard-won rights. Let us unite to ensure that every young person, regardless of their identity, can live authentically, safely, and without fear.

This is a moment for action, for solidarity, and for unwavering support. Together, we will not only withstand this challenge but emerge stronger, advocating for a future where every LGBTQ+ youth can thrive. The fight for justice and equality is far from over, and we will lead the charge.

If you are an LGBTQ+ youth aged 14-23 seeking support and community, you are not alone. The Attic is here for you.
We invite you to connect to our resources. Our program calendar is always updated on our website, check it out to see if there is a group that speaks to you.

Jasper Liem, LCSW
Executive Director

The Attic Youth Center | Philadelphia PA