(bright lighthearted music) - Founded with a mission to save lives, Encircle creates affirming spaces where LGBTQ+ youth and families can find life-changing resources and support.

Here to tell us how connection is key is Ana Chavarri.

Thank you so much for being here.

- Hi, thank you for having me.

- So tell me why that's a part of the motto, that connection is key.

- Well, we know that LGBTQ+ young people, they experience suicidal ideation.

And the antidote to isolation, to disconnection, to rejection is community, is belonging.

And that is why we try to create, at the Encircle homes, is a space that is affirming and loving so the person can navigate their journey.

- And a part of that is therapy, but there are other programs as well that are available.

Can you talk about those?

- Yeah, so we have therapy, which is one of our most utilized services.

And we're paneled with a variety of health insurances.

We also have the Encircle Therapy Assistance Grant, which offers scholarships that provide free therapy for about six to 12 months.

And then our free programming includes services like friendship circles, which are peer-led support groups, creative programs like media night, art night, music night, so self-exploration, self-expression.

We do have parent programs as well, so community and resources for parents.

And we also do a lot of community events and celebrations.

We really want the community to show up, and show the love, and support, and affirmation that LGBTQ+ young people need.

- Do you run with volunteers as well as professionals?

- Yes, we will not be able to do what we do without our volunteers.

They donate thousands of hours every year to support our services, so that is one way to get involved with Encircle.

- Well, thank you so much for joining us and sharing this information.

If you would like to learn more about how you can volunteer or even participate in some of the programs, just head to Encircle's website, that's encircletogether.org.

I'm Liz Adeola, and thank you for watching "Contact".

(bright lighthearted music) Philanthropy, Arts, culture.

It's what brings us together.

Hi, I'm Liz Adeola, the host of Contact, a show that connects you with local events and organizations that serve your community.

If you work for a nonprofit and would like to be on Contact, please visit pbs.org/contact