True Colors, Inc.

True Colors works to create a world where youth, adults and families of all sexual orientations and gender identities are valued and affirmed. Our programs include one-on-one and group mentoring; school based youth advocacy and leadership development; the production of the largest LGBTQIA youth conference in the country; professional cultural competency training; and the management of a state wide task force focused on the needs of LGBTQI youth in out-of-home care.

The True Colors R.I.S.E Mentoring Program matches adults from the community with at-risk LGBTQ+ youth. The majority of our youth come from the Department of Children and Families; most are in out-of-home care. Youth who participate in this program are matched with a True Colors mentor for a period of one year; however our expectation is that this relationship will extend beyond this time period. Once matched, mentors and mentees are given two assignments and asked to set goals for the following year. From there it’s up to them to decide how they’re going to spend their time together!

We also have a R.I.S.E Group Mentoring Program for youth who are currently on the waiting list for a One on One Mentor as well as adults who don’t have the time to dedicate to a one on one relationship and still want to support queer teens. The role of a Group Mentor is to bring unmatched mentees to at least one activity per month and to be a part of a group of adults committed to fostering positive, safe, and healthy introductions to the various communities that we represent.