Welcome to Rainbow Resources, a collection of LGBTQIA+ resources across Orange, Osceola, Seminole, Lake, Brevard and Volusia Counties.
Why do we need a site like Rainbow Resources? A quick look at the statistics paints a dreary picture of the situation facing LGBTQ+ youth in Central Florida. Here are a few highlights from the 2024 survey of young people nationwide ages 13 to 24 conducted by the Trevor Project:
-- 50 percent of LGBTQ+ young people needed mental health and couldn't access it.
-- 90 percent of LGBTQ+ young people said their lives have been negatively impacted by recent politics.
-- 45 percent of transgender and nonbinary youth said they and their families have considered moving to another state because of LGBTQ+ related politics and laws.
-- 23 percent of LGBTQ+ young people have been physically threatened or harmed in the past year because of their sexual orientation or identity.Resources are available in a lot of places, but we wanted to make them centralized and easy to find, especially for youth who might be uncomfortable making phone calls. This site gives you not only the information you need, but also hope and support from people who are living the LGBTQ+ experience every day. Explore, enjoy, and if you have a question, send us an email - we're happy to help!
The Following Sections each like to different pages of resources for the counties.
These are some anonymous messages of hope from Other LGBTQ People for you to remember when you need.
The only person who can truly know who you are is YOU. There's not a single person, policy, or government that has any hold over who you are. We will never be erased.
Trans people have been recorded to exist since the first recorded civilization. We have always been here and we will always be here.
The world is so much better with you in it.
You are worthy. You are enough. You are loved. YOU MATTER
Hello! I know the world feels overwhelming sometimes, but don't despair. There was a time in which I felt like I had no real place in the world, but I decided to focus on myself and my goals. Think about the future! Visualize the world of the future and how you can be a part of it. There is a place for you! I am proud of the person I am now and I am sure that you will be too. Keep fighting!
You are exactly who you should be. There's nothing more beautiful and powerful than someone who chooses to be themself.So proud of you for knowing who you are! There is pride to be had in being who you are. Do not be ashamed to be true to your heart.
Sometimes it feels like no one loves you, but there's always someone. some people just arent the best at showing love, and all it takes is a little listening for those who care
Hey guys! Its Em, Ava, and Nat!!! There is always a community! Surround yourself with people who love You for yourself!!! Remember the people around you who love you most, will never judge you for who you are.
You are loved and your identity is valid. No matter what you are going through you deserve to be here--authentic and happy. Keep your head up, be yourself, and use you uniqueness to make the world a better place.
You are beautiful just the way you are. Don't let anyone tell you that you are not exactly who you were born to be. There is so much love out there for you.
Below are some well-known (and some less well-known) LGBTQ books I have read and a review of them.
Heartstopper By Alice Oseman
When I finally picked up Heartstopper by Alice Oseman, and let me just say—my heart? Officially stopped. (In the best way possible.)This graphic novel is basically a warm hug in book form. It follows Charlie, a sweet, openly gay teen who's a bit anxious and awkward (relatable), and Nick, the popular rugby guy with a heart of gold and a whole journey of self-discovery ahead of him. They meet at school, become friends, and slowly—but beautifully—start falling for each other. Cue all the feels.What really got me was how real it all felt. The dialogue, the pacing, the awkward glances and shy smiles—it’s like Oseman captured the exact vibe of teenage crushes and navigating identity. Plus, the artwork is super cute and expressive, with little doodles (like leaves and sparkles) that just make your heart do somersaults.And while it’s soft and cozy for the most part, it doesn’t shy away from heavier topics like mental health, bullying, and coming out. But it's all handled with such care, and there’s always a strong sense of hope and support throughout.If you’re looking for a wholesome, slow-burn queer romance that’ll leave you smiling like an idiot, Heartstopper is 100% worth the read. And good news—there are multiple volumes, and a TV Show, so once you fall in love with Nick and Charlie (and you will), you don’t have to say goodbye just yet.
Art Showing Support and Love for the LGBTQ+ Community
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Below is a List of LGBTQ Resources all over Brevard County
PFLAG Melbourne Space Coast
PFLAG Melbourne Space Coast chapter offers support, education, events, and more to LGBTQ+ persons, their families, friends and allies.
Space Coast Rainbow Homeschoolers
A social group for currently homeschooling LGBTQ+ and ally families, in Brevard County Florida, to come together for connection and support.
Below is a List of LGBTQ Resources all over Lake County
Heart To Heart, LGBTQIA+ Youth Group
Heart to Heart is an LGBTQIA+ social/support meet-up every third Saturday of the month. Heart to Heart is solely for individuals 11 to 19 years of age. Join us for connections, laughter, and friendship in an accepting, nonjudgmental, and affirming environment!
Lake County Pride
LCP is a non-profit organization that supports the LGBTQIA+ community in Lake County, FL, through counseling, education, advocacy, and community service initiatives for kids, teens, and adults.
Below is a List of LGBTQ Resources all over Orange County
Orlando Youth Alliance
The mission of the Orlando Youth Alliance and its chapters is to provide a safe space for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning youth in Central Florida.
Zebra Youth
Zebra Youth is an organization that provides services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and all youth (LGBTQ+) ages 13 – 24.Zebra assists young people facing homelessness, bullying, isolation from their families, and physical, sexual, and drug abuse with individualized programs to guide them to recovery and stability.
Below is a List of LGBTQ Resources all over Osceola County
Pride Coalition at The Osceola Chamber
The Osceola Chamber Pride Coalition is the LGBTQ+ voice in the Osceola business community. Visit a meeting to keep on top of resources, issues, wants, and needs related to business in the LGBTQ+ community in Osceola County. We’ll hear from speakers, keep on top of representation and charitable opportunities, and make sure voices from the LGBTQ+ community and their allies are heard in business.
Below is a List of LGBTQ Resources all over Seminole County
Seminole Youth Alliance
Seminole Youth Alliance (SYA) is the Seminole County chapter of the Orlando Youth Alliance (OYA).Located At Longwood Hills Congregational Church
Below is a List of LGBTQ Resources all over Volusia County
Daytona Beach Gay Alliance
The Daytona Beach Gay Alliance of Florida (DBGAFL) is a community-driven organization dedicated to fostering inclusivity, mutual aid, and support for LGBTQ+ individuals and allies across Florida.
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