By Ana Gomez

In a world where mental health challenges and discrimination continue to impact youth, especially those from marginalized communities, YouthSeen stands as a vital organization dedicated to supporting the mental health and wellness of QTBIPoC (queer and transgender Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) youth, their families, and the wider community. With a focus on LGBTQIA individuals of color, YouthSeen offers a safe space for all who identify as LGBTQIA, ensuring their voices are heard and needs are met.聽

YouthSeen is built on a foundation of resilience, compassion, happiness, human dignity, and integrity鈥攙alues that shape every aspect of its work. Through programs, training, and case management services, the organization strives to create a more inclusive and supportive world for young people. The organization鈥檚 network of trained professionals provides short-term support, referrals, and resources to youth and families facing challenges. Additionally, peer mentorship is a key component of the organization鈥檚 approach, providing young people with mentors who understand their experiences and can offer guidance and support.聽

The organization鈥檚 founder, Tara Jae, who moved to Colorado in 2017, noticed a significant gap in the mental health and wellness resources available for LGBTQIA individuals, particularly those from communities of color. "When I moved to Colorado, I noticed there was an abundance of mental health resources, but a smaller group for LGBTQIA individuals, and even fewer for QTBIPoC," Tara explained. 聽

This led to the creation of YouthSeen. "I wanted to create a space that was welcoming and supportive to our community and provide the support where people needed it most," they added. Through YouthSeen, this vision is becoming a reality. 鈥淒ata has always shown that there is a void of services and support for people of color, and more specifically for QTBIPoC,鈥� said Tara, reflecting on their own lived experiences and the experiences of others in the community.聽

YouthSeen鈥檚 approach is informed by community feedback鈥攖he organization adapts and evolves based on the needs and requests of the people it serves. 鈥淲e move at the speed of trust and peace. We move as the community does, like water, depending on the feedback and how we are seeing the bigger picture.鈥� This flexibility ensures YouthSeen can address emerging needs and create meaningful solutions where support is most needed.聽

YouthSeen鈥檚 programs are designed to create a sense of belonging, independence, and empowerment. In addition, rental and utility support services have provided crucial assistance to youth and their families who are facing housing instability.聽

A key initiative under YouthSeen鈥檚 umbrella is CampSeen, a unique outdoor program for QTBIPoC youth. Situated in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, just an hour south of Denver, this outdoor experience provides youth with the chance to connect with nature in a way that is often inaccessible or unsafe for people of color. "At CampSeen, we pride ourselves on ensuring we have a space that allows for our youth to experience nature in a safe environment," said Tara.聽

CampSeen is more than just a traditional summer camp. It is specifically designed to ensure LGBTQIA youth of color can be themselves without fear of discrimination and build lasting friendships. Free from the distractions of modern technology, campers engage in meaningful face-to-face interactions, forming deep social connections with others who share similar experiences.聽

The camp鈥檚 counselors are dedicated professionals who focus on helping youth develop independence, friendship, and belonging. "CampSeen will give your child the opportunity to meet other LGBTQ kids like themselves in a safe environment, free of the judgments and expectations of the outside world," Tara explained. The program provides nutritious meals, ensuring all dietary needs are met. The camp鈥檚 gender-expansive bathrooms and age-gender determined cabin assignments make it an affirming and inclusive space where youth can truly be themselves.聽

In addition to its direct support for youth, YouthSeen plays a key role in training and educating other organizations and communities. Through training, workshops, and presentations, YouthSeen helps other groups and institutions enhance their ability to support LGBTQIA communities.聽

As YouthSeen continues to grow and evolve, Tara envisions a future where the organization remains a recharging space for those facing adversity to feel empowered and connected.聽

The luckywin thanks , , ., and for making this award possible and for supporting our mission in Colorado and Wyoming.