Anti-discrimination policies. Safe Space stickers. Communicating that homophobic comments aren’t acceptable. Staff from the Jacksonville Area Sexual Minority Youth Network (JASMYN) shared these ideas and more for supporting LGBTQ youth during a sensitivity and safe space training for approximately 20 youth-serving agency staff on June 11.

The workshop aimed to increase awareness and understanding of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Questioning youth; promote safe space for LGBTQ youth; increase participant sensitivity toward LGBTQ teens; and help youth workers create environments that discourage bullying of LGBTQ and other youth in community and school settings.

JASMYN, a youth services organization for 13-23 year olds founded in 1994, provides  safety net services like support groups, case management and risk counseling services in addition to an on-site STD clinic, HIV testing, health education and advocacy services.

The training was the second in a series under the Coalition’s Personal Responsibility Education Program grant. JASMYN and the Jacksonville Children’s Commission organized the event.