Today, the LGBTQ+ community has grown and played a considerable part in many lives. However, despite the growth in the community, there are still challenges LGBTQ+ youth and adults face. There continues to be negativity, prejudice, and injustice that people face for being themselves. Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Utah want all youth to feel supported and accepted. Through volunteer opportunities in Utah with BBBSU, you can help support local LGBTQ+ children. 

 

Create a Safe Space

When Littles are discussing their orientation, gender, and other preferences or beliefs, be kind to them. Help create a space in your mentorship where they feel comfortable being themselves. Allow them a place where they feel a lack of judgment that they might struggle to find elsewhere. Be open to letting them discuss their feelings and concerns. Sometimes, all a kid needs to understand themselves better is a person who listens and allows them to explore who they are without judgment or criticism. 

 

Be Empathetic

Despite the growth in the LGBTQ+ community and allies, there are still challenges kids face every day. This can be hard for kids who experience such negativity as they can feel targeted, different, or unsafe. As a Big, you can empathize with their feelings and struggles. One of the best things you can do is offer a place where your Little can find peace and someone willing to listen and understand their hardships. Don’t push away their concerns. Help Littles who identify as LGBTQ+ navigate their struggles with the support of their mentor. 

 

Giving Hope 

Mentors can be a source of hope if a Little is in a place where they feel stuck and like nothing will get better. As a mentor, your job is to help kids find hope in themselves. Work with them to establish long-term goals. Goals are great ways to inspire hope and allow kids to look toward the future. 

 

If you are looking for a program that is LGBTQ+ inclusive and strives to help the youth of today achieve their full potential, visit us at bbbsu.org for more information. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Utah offers multiple volunteer opportunities in Utah for those looking to reach out to the community.