Jasper Liem, LCSW
Executive Director
Dear friends of The Attic,
In a year that tried to crush our spirits, what I feel most is pride: pride in our young people, pride in the Attic staff who show up for them every single day, and pride in a community that refuses to yield to hate.
LGBTQ+ youth have the unequivocal right to exist, live their truth, and have access to health care, education, housing, economic stability, support, and love. As fear and hostility grew this year, our young people answered with courage and the determination to be their true selves, fueled by the love and support they find in community. And they made sure their voices were heard.
I am so proud of our youth. Members of our Youth Leadership Council spoke at city flag raisings and shared youth concerns at a roundtable with Governor Shapiro in Harrisburg. They rocked the Philadelphia Pride March, unfurled the giant Pride flag, and generously lent their experiences and creativity to designing our future home. More youth were celebrated at Lavender Graduation than ever before. Through the youth-designed groups and leadership programs at the heart of everything we do, our youth shape The Attic every day.
I am just as proud of our staff, who bring skill and passion to this work far beyond any job description requirement. This has been a hard year for nonprofits, especially those serving LGBTQ+ people. Despite funding cuts, The Attic did not eliminate a single staff position, something we are deeply grateful for when so many of our peers could not say the same. Instead, our team grew, welcoming two new counselors, an intern, and new case management and development staff. Together, we secured the grants and loans that will bring The Attic to its new home at 1206 Chestnut Street next year.
In 1993 Carrie Jacobs and Daren Wade started a weekly group in the "attic" of Voyage House. Thirty-three years later, we remain the only organization in Philadelphia dedicated exclusively to serving LGBTQ+ young people, and our mission is as urgent as ever.
Whatever happens nationally, our youth and staff remind me every day that love will prevail. Your support reminds us all that we are not alone. Thank you for standing with them and helping us protect their futures and queer joy.
In Solidarity and Gratitude,
Jasper Liem, LCSW
Executive Director
