A Place to Belong

As we approach the final week of Pride 2026, we wanted to spotlight a second queer-led, life-
affirming nonprofit organization in South Carolina. Founded in 1995 by a father who wanted to
stand up for—and stand beside—his gay son, We Are Family (WAF) is the state’s oldest
nonprofit providing life-saving programming for LGBTQ+ youth and young adults, with a
particular focus on people of color and those from low-income communities.
Here’s why that work matters.

When young people begin to recognize they may be part of the LGBTQ+ community, it can be a
frightening and uncertain time. They may not know whether the adults around them are safe or
supportive, and they may not know other young people who share their experiences. At the same time, even the most loving and supportive parents can find themselves asking, “How do I support my child when so much of the world still tells them they’re wrong?”

The stakes could not be higher. According to organizations like The Trevor Project, LGBTQ+
youth experience significantly higher rates of suicidal thoughts and suicide attempts than their
non-LGBTQ+ peers. Research consistently shows that acceptance, supportive communities, and affirming environments can dramatically reduce that risk. WAF exists to provide exactly that through life-affirming programs, community education, microgrants, and even a safe place to shop. Their vision is a world in which LGBTQ+ youth and allies feel empowered to find their place within their families, their communities, and the world.

WAF’s programming is intentionally broad, offering young people and families multiple pathways to support, connection, and empowerment. Their statewide initiatives include a mental health assistance program providing free, affirming short-term therapy; SafeSpace Hangouts and other social support groups; a peer discussion group for parents and guardians of LGBTQ+ youth; grassroots community organizing led by and for community members; an evidence-based cultural competency training program; and a microgrant program for transgender and gender nonconforming (TGNC) individuals.

WAF also operates Closet Case Thrift Store, a social enterprise that provides gender-affirming
products to TGNC young people at no cost. Beyond these programs, the organization offers
supportive summer camps and an annual Queer Prom, where teens can celebrate themselves and one another in a safe, affirming environment.

At its heart, WAF exists to support queer youth—to help them survive, thrive, and grow into
adults who know they are worthy of love, belonging, and opportunity.

If you’d like to support this important work, visit We Are Family’s website to learn more about
their programs, volunteer opportunities, and upcoming events. Whether through a donation,
volunteering your time, attending an event, or simply helping spread the word, you can play a
role in ensuring LGBTQ+ young people across South Carolina have the support and community
they deserve.

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