Youth-Serving Organizations' Inclusivity of LGBTQ Newcomers - A Content Analysis

LGBTQ newcomer youth in Canada experience unique challenges due to their intersecting identities which may negatively impact their well-being and development. For those lacking support at home and in school, youth-serving organizations provide various services and socialization that can effectively address these challenges. In a two-stage content analysis, this study explored LGBTQ newcomer inclusivity in 39 youth-serving organizations in Toronto and Vancouver, as well as programs and services offered to this population specifically. Stage 1 findings demonstrate that few organizations displayed inclusion of and supports for LGBTQ newcomers. Stage 2 findings show that approaches to programs and services offered to this population can be categorized into four themes: cultural and linguistic sensitivity, skills development & education, socialization & community connections, and health & well-being. The efficacy of their approaches is largely supported by the literature. Recommendations for best practices are discussed, with an emphasis placed on the importance of inclusive policies that incorporate an intersectional understanding of youth.