CenterLink

Kaleidoscope Youth Center

Columbus, Ohio

http://www.kycohio.org/

Services and Programs

KYC works in partnership with young people in Central Ohio to create safe and empowering environments for LGBTQ youth through advocacy, education and support. Kaleidoscope Youth Center primarily serves Franklin and the contiguous counties in Central Ohio. As needs arise in other areas of the state wherein resources for LGBTQ youth are unavailable, provisions are made to provide services in those locations.

Programs and Activities include:

• David Bohnett Cyber Center: A five station computer center offers free internet access, academic resources and skills-building trainings.
• Support groups: A wide range of topics are discussed including: coming out, relationships, substance abuse, gender, school and family.
• Young Activists Participating (YAP): This group is for youth who are ready to create change in their lives, and the world around them. Topics explored include personal values, decision making, current events, goal setting, and community involvement.
• Keep It Smart and Safe (KISS): A peer-to-peer education program that includes life skills, risk reduction, self care, communication and HIV/STD prevention.
• Creative Arts Studio Time (CAST): Engages youth in the preparation and performance of theater, creative writing, and visual arts. This includes writing, music, and visual arts workshops, photography seminars, and queer youth art shows.
• Youth Advisory Board: Offers youth the opportunity to initiate and organize recreational, fundraising and educational activities at the Center and in the greater Central Ohio community.
• Speakers Bureau: Youth speak to audiences at schools, community organizations, social service agencies, and public events about their life experiences as LGBTQ youth.
• Special Events: Quarterly special events round out each year. These include "I Matter" Retreat Weekend, Come Out & Dance, Annual Reunion BBQ, and Happy New Queer Dance.