SMYAL celebrates its 40th year
SMYAL, a local advocacy and services organization for LGBTQ youth, is turning 40 this year. The nonprofit has various services, including workshops, clinical services and housing, for youth ages six to 24. “It’s really profound and breathtaking, right?
To know that over the course of the 40 years, we’ve been able to thrive and evolve to continue to meet the needs of queer and trans youth in our community,” said Erin Whelan, the executive director of SMYAL.
Whelan moved across the country to come on as SMYAL’s executive director a year and a half ago. She was drawn to the nonprofit for many reasons, one being its reputation, and the broad age range that SMYAL serves. “SMYAL has been and continues to see youth as young as six as a part of this community,” Whelan said. “And understands that the needs might be different but the want and desire to feel seen, heard, celebrated and affirmed is there regardless of our age.” She was also drawn to the organization’s housing program, which started in 2017.
SMYAL serves more than 45 LGBTQ youth in the region through its housing program, which includes case management, social support and skills development, including job training.
