Research tells us that young people are more likely to flourish and become successful adults through contact with supportive and understanding adults and peers. NAGLY is just such a place.

NAGLY is a place where youth can discuss issues of importance to them. NAGLY provides a place for participants to explore their identities; it is a place to build self-awareness and to learn skills for being safe and healthy. Through group building and community service opportunities, NAGLY is a strong community which promotes respect for self and for others.   

Youth of all sexual orientations, gender identities, ethnic, cultural and class backgrounds are welcome and celebrated.  Young people who are unsure or questioning are supported as they remain in transition or examine possibilities carefully and in a developmentally appropriate manner. 

Through support and education, young people at NAGLY are empowered to be themselves without shame, violence, discrimination and misunderstanding. The group environment values each member’s unique contributions. Participants are guided to make decisions that promote well-being – leading often to an improved sense of self, lowered rates of risky behavior, increased academic achievement and greater potential for a productive and successful future.

NAGLY recognizes the importance of parental support in fostering healthy development for young people. We hope to increase family communication by encouraging open and honest dialogue when safe and appropriate.  

Rest assured that NAGLY is run by both youth leaders and trained adult advisors who are 1) mandated reporters and 2) know when to refer participants to outside resources. Although they have a high regard for confidentiality and cannot reveal personal and individual information about NAGLY members, NAGLY advisors are available to parents to discuss how NAGLY operates, our policies and what youth members can expect when joining a meeting. Advisors can also suggest resources to assist parents of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning youth.