Lakes Region Outright

Mission

Lakes Region Outright (LRO) is a nonprofit organization determined to provide a safe and judgment free zone for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning (LGBTQ) youth and friends or supporters of the community (ages 6 - 24).

About us

LRO was founded in 2012 following the hostility some individuals faced in our schools and community. For this reason a group of activists gathered to form LRO. What began as a “once a week” support group has flourished into an environment for youth to support each other and learn about homophobia, transphobia, and other oppressions as well as fight discrimination, harassment, bullying and violence with-in our communities. LRO is a support and advocacy organization that seeks to change the social climate for all youth in the Lakes Region area and beyond. Through social and support groups, our youth empower one another to stand proud and live up to their full potential. Our youth-driven cultural competency training, teaches leadership skills to fellow LGBTQ youth and their supporters, while educating our community.

Our Strategy

LRO’s organizing strategy is based on two things, to offer a safe, non-judgmental environment and youth empowered leadership. History has shown that youth empowerment is a key factor in the fight for equal rights. We describe youth empowerment as - youth can take significant leadership roles in our organization and adjusting the fundamental power dynamics of everyone they come in contact with so that their hard work can achieve results.

Vision

We envision a world full of love, caring, outgoing, and concern where:

• All people (young and old alike) are valued for who they are,
• Our young people are provided with the knowledge and power to make informed life altering choices,
• Bullying, harassment, and other forms of oppression will never be tolerated, and
• Being “different” is no longer an excuse to treat badly, demean, torment or be controlled by others.

While in our space we ask that all youth, staff, and volunteers follow these guidelines:

• Confidentiality covers everyone,
• Always assume the best intentions,
• Respect other people and their belongings,
• No touching or talking with the intent to arouse,
• No physical or emotional violence will be tolerated while here,
• During normal business hours this space is a work environment,
• Keep it safe: No alcohol or drug use before or during your time here,
• Own your actions: What you do, how you behave, and what you say may impact others, and
• While in our place everyone should feel comfortable, relax, and have fun! Please treat it with respect,

Those who individually or collectively jeopardize the safety or confidentiality of another or who are inappropriately using our space will be asked to leave until they can honor these guidelines. Our sessions, programs, groups, and efforts are geared toward the LGBTQ community and their supporters, (ages 6 – 24, unless otherwise stated).