About Us
Rainbow Youth Outreach first met on July 21, 1997 and continues to meet twice a month to serve the needs of the LGBTQA (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgendered and Questioning youth and their Allies) in Peoria, IL and surrounding communities. It is the only LGBTQA youth-serving organization in the area. The primary objectives of the group are to:
- Increase the self-esteem of each youth to promote healthy decision-making
- Create an awareness of HIV prevention among gay youth and their allies
- Educate the community about the needs of LGBTQA youth Work to educate communities in diversity and equality
Mission Statement
Our mission is to enhance the opportunities for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgendered, and questioning youth and their allies, ages 14-20, by providing a supportive environment so they can grow, prosper, and realize their full potential in the community and the world.
Highlights and Accomplishments
- Active partner in the Heartland Safe Schools Initiative.
- Established a speakers bureau on LGBTQA youth issues Served as a host for Peoria's FRIENDS of PWA Dining with Friends since 1998.
- Established a lending library with over 300 books and videos.
- Established Illinois Youth Pride, a state-wide day long event held for youth and young adults, ages 14-24, as an alternative to major Pride events Attended and presented at the Illinois Association of School Social Workers conference on a youth panel.
- Attended the Reeling Gay & Lesbian Film Festival in Chicago as well as Gay Pride Parades in Chicago and/or St. Louis