New Jersey Adoption Resource Clearing House

Family & Caregiver support for LGBTQ+ Youth

As so many of us know, there are few higher and courageous callings than raising and caring for a child as they navigate the stages of their development into adulthood. “It takes a village” as they say. A significant milestone that youth will navigate are the identities that inevitably shape the direction of their hearts, the gender they will feel the most belonging within, and whom they will love. Many of us know how challenging, exciting and confusing a time this was as we etched out the contours of our identities- and there is no greater space and opportunity to be supported in that process than the safety of our homes. As caregivers we have control over how safe our homes are and will be for our children. Particularly our LGBTQ+ children. But what are the lessons and tools required in order for our LGBTQ+ youth to feel safe and to thrive?

What is an ally, how to be an ally and why it’s important? What tools can we learn to understand the language and identities of our LGBTQ+ brothers and sisters? How can families create brave and safe spaces for children to explore what their sexual identities may be without shame? What bridges can be built to foster understanding of sexual identities across diverse faith backgrounds?