Mission Moment Article 5

Stronger Together for LGBTQ+ Youth

Affirmations LGBTQ+ Community Center in Ferndale has provided a safe space and a connection hub for southeast Michigan’s LGBTQ+ community for more than 35 years. In the past two years, Affirmations has partnered with The Alliance of Coalitions to support LGBTQ+ youth with prevention programs rooted in care, not control. 

Joe Volpe, Programs Manager at Affirmations, speaks highly of the partnership. “The Alliance supports our Drop-in Center during our monthly craft night. They aid us in building community and healthy living for LGBTQ+ youth through thoughtful crafts connected to substance use education,” they said. “We also are regular partners on other projects.”

The Alliance stands out in a field where prevention work often uses scare tactics. “They have a really great focus on delivering support in non-oppressive ways,” says Joe. “Due to societal impacts, LGBTQ+ youth face increasing challenges that expose them to higher rates of substance misuse. Proper prevention work combined with programming focused on wellness ensure our youth can thrive and find healthy ways of coping.”

Joe added, “The Alliance is thoughtful in the delivery of the programs and very supportive of the LGBTQ+ community.”

This approach has fostered a deep sense of collaboration. “The relationship they’ve built with us makes me want to continue working with them. My team members and I jump at the opportunity to volunteer for their events,” they shared.

Joe summed up the potential of their ongoing partnership: “I hope our work together will accomplish decreased rates of substance misuse in LGBTQ+ teens and contribute to a healthier future.”