A dedicated team in Ohio is taking on a monumental challenge, aiming to raise $100,000 in just 30 days for the Kaleidoscope Youth Center, a vital resource for LGBTQ youth in their community. Their journey thus far has been nothing short of inspiring, demonstrating that with determination and teamwork, remarkable feats can be achieved.
“It’s exhilarating, in a wonderfully chaotic way,” says Megan Turner, one of the 66 participants in the Ohio-based leadership initiative known as Next Level Gives. “We often joke that we’re 66 passionate individuals on a mission.”
This incredible undertaking is not without its challenges, especially given the current climate for LGBTQ youth across the nation. However, Turner remains optimistic about their ability to reach their goal. “We are committed to transforming the seemingly impossible into reality,” she shares with enthusiasm.
The members of this group come from diverse backgrounds, some identifying as LGBTQ themselves. Through the Next Level Gives program, they are honing their skills to become better advocates and allies. While personal growth is part of their journey, their collective mission focuses on ensuring that every young person feels valued and loved. They aim to translate their good intentions into meaningful action by raising funds for the youth center.
“With all the negative headlines surrounding the LGBTQ community, we want to send a powerful message—not just through words, but through our actions,” Turner emphasizes.
The Importance of the Kaleidoscope Youth Center
The Kaleidoscope Youth Center is more than just a safe haven for LGBTQ youth; it serves as a second home for many. It offers a supportive environment where young people aged 12 to 20 can express themselves, connect with peers, and access essential services like STI/HIV testing. The center has become a cornerstone of the community, especially during times when such support is critically needed.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the negative attitudes toward the LGBTQ community put these young individuals at a heightened risk for violence, bullying, and mental health issues. A 2015 survey by the Gay, Lesbian, And Straight Education Network (GLSEN) revealed that 85% of LGBTQ students reported experiencing verbal harassment, with 32% missing school due to feeling unsafe.
At Kaleidoscope, not only do the youth receive vital support, but their families can also participate in support groups. “I heard about one mother who traveled over 250 miles to bring her child to Kaleidoscope because there were no other resources nearby,” recalls Turner, underscoring the importance of outreach efforts, particularly in rural areas. The funds raised will also contribute to the center’s daily operations.
Progress and Future Goals
As of now, the group has successfully raised just over $31,000, with only five days remaining in their fundraising campaign. The final push includes various events aimed at gathering the remaining funds. Their hard work and unity serve as a source of inspiration for many.
One key takeaway for Turner through her leadership journey is a lesson we can all embrace: “When you focus on giving to others, you often find that you receive so much more in return.”
How to Support
To help support the Kaleidoscope Youth Center and assist Next Level in reaching their ambitious goal, consider making a donation through their donation page. For more information about Kaleidoscope Youth Center, visit their website at www.kycohio.org. This is a great opportunity to engage with a cause that truly matters, and if you’re interested in home insemination, be sure to check out reputable options like the at-home insemination kits available at Make A Mom. For further insights into pregnancy and home insemination resources, explore Womens Health.
In summary, this small group in Ohio is proving that collective action can lead to significant change, especially for marginalized youth. Their ambitious fundraising campaign for the Kaleidoscope Youth Center is a testament to the power of community and the importance of supporting our young people.