June is traditionally recognized as LGBT Pride Month, with many activities, festivals, parades and fairs. But as a volunteer, you can show your pride and support for the LGBTcommunity, year-round. And you don’t even have to leave the comforts of home. Here are a few ideas and organizations to consider.
Volunteer for LGBT advocacy
If you’re interested in ensuring the LGBT community gets the critical resources it needs, and you want to be a catalyst for progressive change, consider being an advocate with The Center. The site offers links to petitions, methods for contacting local leaders, and information on mobile advocacy.
Help stop the hate
Join the combined efforts of the Anti-Defamation League, the Leadership Conference Education Fund, and the Center for the Prevention of Hate Violence to address the problem of hate violence among youth. Or vow to make a difference with a single tweet when you connect with Human Rights Watch.
Remove the barriers to physical and mental health
Discrimination puts LGBT people at increased risk for multiple health issues, including depression, addiction and chronic health conditions. You can help make a difference as a volunteer with the LGBT Helpline and Volunteer Listening Line. And if you’d like to make an impact on LGBT seniors, the National Resource Center on LGBTAging is a great place to find helpful resources and get involved, even if you just sign up for emails to stay informed.
Be a friend to vulnerable youth
The emotional challenges young people face in the LGBT community can be difficult to bear without emotional support. If you know someone who’s struggling, Ulifeline is an online resource that can help. You can also search to see if your local schools participate in the program and find out how get them enrolled.
Offer your time and your story
If you identify as a member of the LGBT community, you can help others with their questions, curiosities and concerns by reaching out to your family and friends and volunteering yourself as a mentor to anyone they know who needs advice.
Find more volunteer opportunities in your community and across the country by visiting www.aarp.org/volunteer or using this simple volunteer search and keyword “LGBT.”
