Youth Outlook

Youth Outlook provides comprehensive support services for LGBTQ+ youth and their families throughout the Chicago suburbs and beyond. Based in Naperville, IL, Youth Outlook operates the first and only social service agency in Illinois solely dedicated to meeting the needs of LGBTQ+ young people. The organization delivers over 40 hours of inclusive, affirming weekly programming across multiple drop-in centers serving seven+ counties in northern, central, and western Illinois. Youth Outlook's drop-in centers create safe, welcoming spaces where LGBTQ+ youth ages 12-20 can develop identity, build self-esteem, and cultivate healthy relationships, with 83% of youth returning weekly. The organization specializes in serving transgender and non-binary youth through dedicated groups like TRANSCEND, while also offering specialized programming for LGBTQ+ children in grades K-6 through Rainbow Sprouts. Beyond direct youth services, Youth Outlook provides comprehensive parent and caregiver support groups, including bilingual programming for Spanish-speaking families. The agency's Health and Wellness Navigation program connects LGBTQ+ individuals and families with affirming healthcare providers and vital community resources. Youth Outlook also delivers community education and professional development training to foster LGBTQ+-inclusive environments throughout the region. With a dedicated team of ten staff members and over 100 active volunteers monthly, Youth Outlook has served more than 1,800 resilient young people since expanding from its original DuPage County roots. The organization continues to partner with universities including Aurora University, Northern Illinois University, and University of Illinois-Chicago.