On January 29, the New Canaan YMCA, in partnership with Lighthouse, will host a LGBTQ+ Youth Group. The event will run from 2:45- 4:00 PM at the YMCA and will include games, crafts, snacks, topic discussion, and social support.
Lighthouse, a program of Kids In Crisis (KIC), is a facilitated youth group for LGBTQ+ youth in middle and high school. Throughout the past few years, the program has made a significant impact in helping large numbers of youth throughout Connecticut. In 2023, the program served youth across Stamford, Westport, Wilton, Darien, and New Canaan, and plans to expand services to include Ridgefield in 2024. The program’s website shared details about further expansion and inclusion, stating, “The Lighthouse family is growing and reinforcing our commitment to the LGBTQ+ community,”.
The Kids In Crisis team considers community engagement to be at the center of the Lighthouse program’s success. From hosting movie nights to game nights, and collaborating with notable entities like the Wilton Historical Center, the program has made a difference in many teens lives. “Lighthouse has given me a place to grow into myself and my queerness. It really boosted my confidence,” shared one student and participant.
In addition to social activities and outings, Lighthouse provides help and support for LGBTQ+ youth, including those facing homelessness, discrimination, and mental health challenges. With contributions from community members and partners, Kids In Crisis and Lighthouse operate the SafeHaven emergency shelter and the 24-hour Crisis HelpLine, which, in 2023, assisted 670 individuals.
The January 29th event at the New Canaan YMCA will serve not only as a place for LGBTQ+ teens and allies to socialize, craft, and play games, but will provide a safe space for gathering and building community as well. With no membership or sign up required, everyone is welcome at the free event. Teens in Grades 6-12 can simply check in at the YMCA Membership desk and join in.
Looking ahead, the KIC Lighthouse team hopes to continue to provide LGBTQ+ youth and their allies with opportunities and community. The group shares the belief that, “The journey ahead is filled with hope and potential, ensuring every child and teen knows they are not alone,”.
For more information on the organization and ways to get involved, you can visit kidsincrisis.org/lighthouse, or @Kic_lighthouse on Instagram. For questions on the upcoming event at the YMCA, visit @newcanaan_ymca on Instagram, or contact Davie Cedela (203) 920-1641.
