The mission of The Attic Youth Center is to create opportunities for LGBTQ youth to develop into healthy, independent, civic-minded adults within a safe and supportive community and to promote the acceptance of LGBTQ youth in society. The Attic remains Philadelphia’s only organization exclusively serving lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) youth.

Founded in 1993 as a support group for LGBTQ youth that met in the “attic” of a Philadelphia social service organization, The Attic has since grown into a comprehensive, multi-service youth agency which provides individual and family therapy, case management, academic enrichment, career development, performing and creative arts, and leadership and civic engagement activities.

The Attic’s Life Skills Center provides individual and group opportunities for LGBTQ youth to learn, practice, and master the skills they will need to successfully transition into adulthood. Youth participate in over 20 educational and therapeutic support groups focused on identity, health and relationships, arts, social justice, and leadership. Youth are provided with workshops, paid internships, mentoring, housing navigation assistance, STI and HIV testing, and counseling.

The Bryson Institute at The Attic offers dynamic, interactive, and educational trainings on best practices for working with LGBTQ individuals. Bryson staff work with social service and health care providers, faith communities, schools/school districts, and other youth-serving agencies to assist in improving the climate and support systems for LGBTQ youth by fostering understanding and providing strategies for creating safe and affirming environments.

The Attic Youth Center is open for programming Monday through Friday, from 3 PM to 6 or 7 PM. Each day youth are provided with meals and access to food pantry items, as well as other basic needs including clothing, coats, backpacks, school supplies, and personal hygiene items. Computers, laptops, and other technology are available for use. The Attic Youth Center provides LGBTQ youth with an affirming space where they are empowered to be their authentic selves and where it’s always OK2BU!