At Key Assets Kentucky, we believe every child deserves to feel safe, seen, and supported—exactly as they are. That’s why, during Pride Month and all year long, we reaffirm our commitment to providing inclusive, affirming care for LGBTQ+ youth across the Commonwealth.
For young people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, the journey to self-acceptance can be challenging—especially when layered with a history of trauma, family rejection, or the instability that often comes with out-of-home placement. These youth are not only navigating the typical struggles of adolescence but are doing so under the weight of stigma, discrimination, and often isolation.
That’s where we come in.
The Stats Speak Loudly—So We Listen Closely
According to The Trevor Project’s National Survey on LGBTQ Youth Mental Health, 41% of LGBTQ+ youth seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year. Among transgender and nonbinary youth, that number jumps even higher. The same survey also shows that affirming environments—such as having just one supportive adult—can drastically reduce that risk.
This is more than a statistic. It’s a call to action. At Key Assets, we recognize that affirming care isn’t optional—it’s lifesaving.
What Does Affirming Care Look Like?
Affirming care starts with respect. It means using a young person’s chosen name and pronouns. It means creating spaces where they feel safe to express their identity without fear of judgment. But beyond that, it’s about listening, learning, and adapting—meeting each young person where they are and walking beside them with compassion.
Our staff are trained in trauma-informed care, with ongoing professional development that includes LGBTQ+ competency. We know that understanding the unique experiences of LGBTQ+ youth helps us offer better support—and helps them build resilience, confidence, and hope for the future.
Affirming Therapy That Meets Them Where They Are
For many of the LGBTQ+ youth we serve through our therapeutic programs, just finding someone who truly listens can be a breakthrough. These young people may be facing bullying, rejection at home, or uncertainty around their identity—all while navigating the complex emotions of adolescence and trauma.
Our licensed therapists are trained to provide affirming, trauma-informed care that helps youth feel safe, validated, and empowered. Sessions are tailored to the individual, giving each child or teen the space to explore their experiences and emotions at their own pace.
We also work closely with caregivers, schools, and support systems to help reinforce that safety outside the therapy setting. Whether it’s assisting a parent to better understand their child’s gender identity or guiding a teacher on creating an inclusive classroom, our goal is to create a broader circle of support that uplifts, protects, and champions LGBTQ+ youth.
Advocating for Change, One Story at a Time
Pride Month celebrates the LGBTQ+ community’s progress but also reminds us of the work that remains. As we advocate for inclusive policies, safer schools, and better access to mental health resources, we continue to center the voices of the young people we serve.
How You Can Help
Support doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are just a few ways you can make a difference for LGBTQ+ youth this month:
- Educate yourself and others about inclusive language and LGBTQ+ experiences.
- Advocate for policies that protect and support LGBTQ+ youth in schools and communities.
- Donate to organizations like Key Assets that are committed to trauma-informed, affirming care.
- Be a safe person. You don’t have to be an expert to show a young person that they are valued just as they are.
If you know someone who could benefit from our services or if you would like to learn more, contact us today.