Here you will find some resources available to you on LGBTQ needs:

Utah's Adoption Connection's LGBTQ category of our Lending Library

Encircle

Encircle is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting LGBTQ+ youth and their families through inclusive programs and services.

Services may include:

• Drop-in youth programs
• Therapy and mental health services
• Family support
• Friendship circles
• Educational workshops
• Community events

Locations include centers in Salt Lake City, Provo, St. George, Heber Valley, and Logan.

Transgender Education Advocates of Utah (TEA of Utah)

TEA of Utah works to support and empower transgender, nonbinary, and gender-diverse Utahns through education, advocacy, and community resources.

Services include:

• Educational materials
• Community events
• Advocacy resources
• Support for families and professionals

Utah Pride Center

The Utah Pride Center works to unite, empower, and celebrate Utah's LGBTQ+ communities.

Programs and resources include:

• Youth programs
• Support groups
• Community events
• Health and wellness resources
• Volunteer opportunities
• LGBTQ+ cultural and educational programming

The Pride Center also maintains educational resources and referral information for families and youth.

Mama Dragons

Mama Dragons is a national organization that originated in Utah and provides support, education, and community for parents and caregivers of LGBTQ+ children.

Resources include:

• Parent support groups
• Educational workshops
• Online communities
• Advocacy opportunities

Utah's Adoption Connection Lending Library

Utah's Adoption Connection offers books, videos, and educational materials related to:

• LGBTQ+ youth in foster care and adoption
• Gender identity and expression
• Family support and acceptance
• Inclusive parenting practices

National Resources

PFLAG National

PFLAG is the nation's largest organization dedicated to supporting, educating, and advocating for LGBTQ+ people and those who love them.

Resources include:

• Local chapters
• Parent and caregiver support
• Educational materials
• Advocacy opportunities

Gender Spectrum

Gender Spectrum provides education and support focused on gender identity and gender expression.

Resources include:

• Parent and caregiver education
• Professional training
• Youth support opportunities
• Online resources and webinars

Annie E. Casey Foundation: Sexual and Gender Identity Terms to Know

A helpful glossary and educational resource covering current LGBTQ+ terminology and concepts.

Human Rights Campaign: Caring for LGBTQ+ Children and Youth

Resources for caregivers, foster parents, adoptive parents, educators, and professionals working with LGBTQ+ youth.

Topics include:

• Family acceptance
• Mental health
• School support
• Affirming care practices

Child Welfare Information Gateway: Resources for Families of LGBTQ+ Youth

A comprehensive collection of child welfare and family support resources focused on LGBTQ+ children and youth.

Resources include:

• Foster and adoptive parent guidance
• Best practices for supporting LGBTQ+ youth
• Child welfare policies
• Research and publications

Supporting LGBTQ+ Youth in Foster Care and Adoption

Research consistently shows that LGBTQ+ youth experience better mental health, educational outcomes, and overall well-being when they have supportive adults in their lives. Foster, adoptive, and kinship families can make a lasting difference by:

• Creating affirming and inclusive home environments.
• Respecting a youth's chosen name and pronouns.
• Supporting healthy identity development.
• Connecting youth with affirming community resources.
• Advocating for safe and supportive school and healthcare experiences.
• Maintaining open, nonjudgmental communication.

Every young person deserves to feel safe, valued, accepted, and connected to a permanent, loving family.