Intern Finds New Light in Our Safe Place!

Our Safe Place (OSP) is a program that provides LGBTQ+ youth ages 12-21 with a welcoming and affirming drop-in center environment. One of our awesome interns, Emilio, uses they/them/theirs pronouns, was welcomed with open arms at OSP and is now able to embrace their identity as a trans, non-binary, queer youth. As an OSP intern, they have facilitated youth chats and provided information to clients about current events in the LGBTQ+ community. Keep reading to learn more about their journey…

Initially, Emilio was hesitant to enter a new space as they had not previously felt accepted. However, a friend invited them to Our Safe Place and they have now found a purpose in creating meaningful social interactions to make positive impacts for the community.

Emilio also participated in OSP-centered meetings and provided feedback for event proposals. As their term is coming to an end, they are working on a legacy project to create a physical illustration of the significance of OSP to youth in our community. With a representation of OSP, Emilio aims to have youth feel loved and accepted when they walk into OSP.

From this experience, Emilio was able to continue to make positive impacts for the community, develop leadership qualities, and learn important job skills. We are so grateful to have Emilio volunteer with us!