BE THE CHANGE
5 THINGS YOU DIDN'T KNOW ABOUT OUT MAINE
1. We create safety, hope and possibility for LGBTQ+ youth across Maine.
This year, we connected with 1000+ LGBTQ+ youth through Rainbow Ball Weekend, and weekend retreats and regional overnights where youth can be themselves with safety and support .
2. We are working to stop bullying in its tracks and build safer schools.
Did you know that 9 out of 10 LGBTQ+ youth are bullied regularly? We reached 115 schools across Maine's 16 counties. Now, 35% of Maine's high & middle schools are building staff capacity to improve policies & procedures and create safety for all .
3. We are weaving a safety net of life-saving professional connections across Maine.
Just one safe adult can change a young person's life and create a future of possibility and hope. We've built a network of 8,000+ (over 2,000 this year) health and other community providers across Maine, committed to the safety of LGBTQ+ youth.
4. We encourage self-expression and community celebration through the arts.
We harness the power of the arts to heal and empower. In this inaugural year, our studio weekend at Haystack Mountain School of Crafts connected 65 Maine LGBTQ+ teens with nationally known LGBTQ+ artists to build new visions for their future.
5. We envision safe and affirming communities for ALL.
Nearly 1 in 5 Maine teens identify as LGBTQ+. They're at high risk for bullying, suicidality, substance use, domestic & sexual violence, and homelessness. We're serious about changing this reality.
Our Mission
OUT Maine works toward a welcoming and affirming Maine for all rural young people of diverse sexual orientations, gender expressions and gender identities.
In partnership with their allies and families, OUT Maine supports, educates and empowers these youth in their journey from adolescence to adulthood.