Empower Youth
Youth and Family
Our Youth & Family programming is dedicated to creating welcoming, affirming spaces where young people can connect, grow, and thrive. Through opportunities for community building, leadership development, mentorship, education, and support, we work to nurture and empower LGBTQ+ youth, their allies, and their families. We also offer family-friendly events and activities that bring people of all ages together, creating opportunities to build relationships, strengthen support networks, and celebrate our community. Whether someone is seeking connection, resources, guidance, or a place to belong, our programs are designed to foster confidence, celebrate identity, and help build the next generation of leaders.
Volusia Pride Youth Council
The Volusia Pride Youth Council is a three-member leadership group made up of young people who will help shape, plan, and lead youth-centered programming with Volusia Pride. Youth Council Members will bring their ideas, lived experiences, creativity, and leadership to help ensure that activities are engaging, affirming, inclusive, and responsive to the needs and interests of LGBTQ+ youth in our community.
Saturday Youth Gatherings
Youth Social
Youth Social is a casual, welcoming space where you can connect with other LGBTQ+ youth and allies, build friendships, and have fun. Hang out, play games, participate in activities, and spend time with people who understand and celebrate one another. Whether you're joining us for the first time or coming back to see friends, Youth Social is a place where you can relax, be yourself, and build community.
Recommended Ages: 12 to 18
First Saturday | 10:30am to 12:00pm (NEW TIME!!)
For more information - youth@volusiapride.org
Youth D&D
Youth Dungeons & Dragons is a welcoming space where you can embark on epic adventures, solve challenges, and create unforgettable stories alongside friends. You'll find a supportive environment where creativity, teamwork, and imagination take center stage. Join a campaign, bring your character to life, and connect with fellow adventurers while building friendships and having fun. You don't need any prior knowledge of D&D to join in and have a great time.
Recommended Ages: 12 to 18
Second and Last Saturdays | 11:00am to 3:00pm (NEW TIME!!)
For more information - kamea@volusiapride.org
OUTfront Scholars
OUTfront Scholars is a youth leadership and community-organizing program for young people ages 15–22 who want to create meaningful change in their communities. Through monthly gatherings, Scholars build confidence, strengthen leadership skills, learn how community organizing works, and take practical steps to turn their ideas into action. Each month, participants come together to explore leadership topics, connect with peers and mentors, identify community needs, and develop projects that make a difference.
Recommended Ages: 15 to 22
Third Saturdays | 1:00pm to 2:30pm
For more information - annmarie@volusiapride.org
Annual Youth Events
Youth Pride Prom is a special evening where you can celebrate, connect, and create lasting memories with friends in a safe, welcoming, and affirming environment. Enjoy a night of music, dancing, food, and fun while expressing yourself freely and celebrating who you are. Pride Prom is a chance to make new connections, build community, and experience a night designed for you.
Recommended Age: Under 18
This event is held every year second Saturday in April.
Youth Pride Prom
Clothing Swap is a fun, sustainable way to refresh your wardrobe while connecting with community. Bring gently used clothing to share or simply come browse and discover new-to-you items contributed by others. Whether you're looking for back-to-school outfits, expressing your style, or just enjoying the experience, the Clothing Swap is a welcoming space to save money, reduce waste, and celebrate self-expression alongside friends.
Recommended Age: Middle School, High School, and College Aged
This event is held every year first Saturday of August.
Back to School Clothing Swap
Lavender Graduation is a celebration of your academic achievements, perseverance, and personal growth. Whether you're graduating from high school, college, a certification program, vocational training, or another educational milestone, this event recognizes the hard work and dedication that brought you to this moment.
Join fellow graduates, family members, friends, and community supporters as we honor your accomplishments and celebrate the unique journeys of LGBTQ+ students and allies. Lavender Graduation is an opportunity to be recognized, reflect on your achievements, and look ahead to the exciting opportunities that await you.
Recommended Age: All Ages
This event is held every year in May.
Lavender Graduation
Brick and Soup Can Literary Zine
Brick and Soup Can is a creative space where you can share your voice, tell your story, and connect with others through art, writing, poetry, photography, and creative expression. Inspired by the resilience, creativity, and community-building that have always been part of queer history, this literary zine celebrates the experiences, perspectives, and talents of LGBTQ+ youth and allies.
Whether you're an experienced writer or artist or simply have something you want to say, Brick and Soup Can provides a platform for your work to be seen and your voice to be heard. Through creativity, we build connection, foster understanding, and create the spaces where we can be fully ourselves.
Other Youth and Family Welcoming Events and Programs
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Gayme Night
A fun and welcoming evening of board games, card games, and friendly competition for community members of all experience levels.
First Friday | 6:30pm | Community Space
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Craft Night
Get creative, learn new skills, and connect with others through hands-on arts, crafts, and DIY projects.
Second Wednesday | 6:00pm | Community Space
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Rainbow Cinema
Join us for film screenings that celebrate LGBTQ+ stories, voices, and experiences; please note that movie ratings and content vary and may not be appropriate for all ages.
Second Friday | 7:00pm | Community Space
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Family Dinner
Share food, conversation, and community at our themed potluck dinners where everyone is welcome at the table.
Third Friday | 6:00pm | Community Space
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Volusia Gatherings
An interfaith gathering that brings people of diverse faiths, beliefs, and backgrounds together for connection, reflection, and community.
Rotating Sundays | Check calendar of events for specific dates and times | Community Space
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DEI Book Giveaway
Expanding access to diverse books and educational resources that promote understanding, inclusion, and belonging.
Annually in October | Date and Location TBD
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Love is Love Pride Fest
Our annual community celebration featuring entertainment, vendors, resources, activities, and opportunities to connect with local LGBTQ+ organizations and supporters.
Annually in February | Downtown DeLand
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Deltona Proclamation of Love
A community event celebrating inclusion, acceptance, and the power of love through civic recognition and community gathering.
Annually in March | Deltona Lyonia Preserve and Amphitheater
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Lending Library
Browse, borrow, and discover books and resources that reflect diverse identities, experiences, and perspectives.
Available during all events at the Community Space
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Belonging Together Training
Interactive training designed to build understanding, strengthen inclusive practices, and foster cultures of belonging in workplaces, organizations, and communities.
Quarterly on Saturdays | Check calendar of events for specific dates and times | Community Space