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.

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.

First Saturday | 1:00pm to 2:30pm

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.

Second and Last Saturdays | 10:00am to 1:00pm (lunch is provided)

For more information - kamea@volusiapride.org

OUTfront Youth

OUTfront Youth is a leadership and advocacy program for LGBTQ+ youth and allies who want to make a difference in your schools, communities, and beyond. You'll develop leadership skills, explore issues impacting your community, and learn how to effectively advocate for yourself and others.

Whether you're interested in organizing events, speaking up for change, educating others, or building a more inclusive community, OUTfront Youth provides the tools, mentorship, and support to help turn your ideas into action. Along the way, you'll connect with other young leaders, build confidence in your voice, and discover the impact you can have when you work together to create positive change.

Third Saturdays | 1:00pm to 3:00pm

For more information - annmarie@volusiapride.org

Annual Youth Events

Youth Pride Prom

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.

This event is held every year in April.

Back to School Clothing Swap

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.

This event is held every year in July.

Lavender Graduation

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.

This event is held every year in May.

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.

Brick and Soup Can Literary Zine

Other Youth and Family Welcoming Events and Programs

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • DEI Book Giveaway

    Expanding access to diverse books and educational resources that promote understanding, inclusion, and belonging.

    Annually in October | Date and Location TBD

  • 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

  • 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

  • Lending Library

    Browse, borrow, and discover books and resources that reflect diverse identities, experiences, and perspectives.

    Available during all events at the Community Space

  • 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