Drop-In Centers

Safe and supportive spaces for LGBTQ+ youth across northern and central Illinois and online.

Youth Outlook’s Drop-In Centers meet weekly, offering welcoming spaces where LGBTQ+ young people can find community and feel celebrated. Guided by trained staff and volunteers, youth help shape the topics we explore—identity and self-esteem, physical and mental health, self-advocacy and leadership, healthy relationships, and more. With 83% of participants returning each week, our Drop-In Centers are a trusted place for connection, growth, and affirmation. There is no cost to attend.

Drop-In Center Schedule

All Drop-In Centers welcome LGBTQ+ youth and allies ages 12–20, unless otherwise noted. For location details and other information, email the Drop-In Center using the address listed below. For general information, check out our FAQ.

Click here for information about our Rainbow Sprouts program for LGBTQ+ children in grades K-6 and their families.

Download current flyers for our Drop-In Centers here — feel free to post them within your community or organization.

Northern Illinois

DeKalb Drop-In
Mondays | 6:30 – 9:00 PM
dekalb@youth-outlook.org

Sterling Drop-In
Thursdays | 6:30 – 9:00 PM
sterling@youth-outlook.org

Northwest Suburbs

TRANSCEND Palatine
For trans & non-binary youth, but open to all
Wednesdays | 6:30 – 9:00 PM
transcendpalatine@youth-outlook.org

Central Illinois

Ottawa Drop-In
Tuesdays | 6:30 – 9:00 PM
ottawa@youth-outlook.org

Peoria Drop-In
Mondays | 6:30 – 9:00 PM
peoria@youth-outlook.org

Western Suburbs

Bolingbrook Drop-In
2nd and 4th Thursdays | 6:30 – 9:00 PM
bolingbrook@youth-outlook.org

Downers Grove Drop-In
Thursdays | 6:30 – 9:00 PM
downersgrove@youth-outlook.org

Elmhurst Drop-In
Thursdays | 6:30 – 9:00 PM
elmhurst@youth-outlook.org

Naperville Drop-In
Tuesdays | 6:30 – 9:00 PM
naperville@youth-outlook.org

TRANSCEND Naperville
For trans & non-binary youth, but open to all
Wednesdays | 6:30 – 9:00 PM
transcendnaperville@youth-outlook.org

Southwest Suburbs

Joliet/Lockport Drop-In
Tuesdays | 6:30 – 9:00 PM
joliet@youth-outlook.org

Virtual Groups

Hosted by trained staff on Zoom

Virtual Drop-In
Tuesdays | 6:00 – 8:00 PM
virtual@youth-outlook.org

Virtual Young Adult Drop-In
(ages 18-24)
Wednesdays | 5:00 – 6:30 PM
youngadult@youth-outlook.org

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Drop-In Center and what will my child do there?

Drop-In Centers for LGBTQ+ youth are welcoming, community-based spaces hosted by local faith groups and nonprofits. Each Drop-In Center meets weekly (with virtual options on Zoom) and follows a consistent format. Staff set up before youth arrive at 6:30 pm, with group check-in beginning at 7:00 pm. Programming is shaped by youth interests and age range, offering something different each week—like guest speakers, educational activities, games, movies, art projects, or group discussions. Sessions end at 9:00 p.m., creating a safe and affirming place where LGBTQ+ youth can connect, learn, and belong.

Can my 11-year-old attend?

Youth Outlook Drop-In Centers welcome youth aged 12 to 20, and we also offer a young adult group for 18- to 24-year-olds. We offer a Rainbow Sprouts program for youth ages Kindergarten through 6th grade and their families. For more information, email rainbowsprouts@youth-outlook.org.

How do I get my child involved?

Youth are welcome to join any Drop-In Center on its designated night. Please email the site’s program leader for the address and details about the group. If you have specific questions, the program leader can answer them and offer to give a tour of the space during a non-group time. Visit the Drop-In Center schedule for more details.

Will my child meet other LGBTQ+ kids?

Yes. Drop-In Centers range in attendance from five youth to 30 youth per night. Attendance varies by location.

Does it matter if we get there late?

Drop-In Centers open at 6:30 pm and close by 9:00 pm. We encourage youth to arrive between 6:30 and 7:00 pm. If you arrive late, please follow the instructions on the door to contact the program leader.

Can my child attend multiple groups?

Youth are welcome to attend as many Drop-In Centers as they like, regardless of where they live. It is not uncommon that youth visit more than one site.

What if my child is not out?

We welcome LGBTQ+ youth and allies to our Drop-In Centers. Youth may be at various stages of their self-discovery journey. We remind group members at each meeting not to disclose who they meet at the Drop-In Centers without that youth’s consent. There is a chance that youth will see other students from their schools or communities at the group.

Do you offer counseling?

Youth Outlook does not currently provide clinical or therapy services. We provide recreational and social drop-in centers, Health and Wellness Navigation to find affirming providers, and community education and professional development.

Where do I find resources for counseling/medical help/name change?

Visit our Resources page for helpful information. If you would like assistance in identifying affirming health and wellness providers, please contact our Health and Wellness Navigators at hwn@youth-outlook.org.

What do parents/caregivers do during the Drop-In Center Groups?

Drop-in Centers are for youth ages 12-20, as well as our trained volunteers and staff. Parents/caregivers are welcome to drop off youth and pick them up at the end of the group. Parents are not required to stay on site, but may be in the parking lot and/or designated areas in the buildings.

How can I help support a Drop-In Center?

Our Drop-In Centers are always here at no cost for the youth who rely on them, and your support makes that possible. You can help by shopping our Amazon Wish List for snacks and supplies, training to become a Drop-in Center volunteer, or making a donation to sustain our mission.

How can I bring a Drop-In Center to my community?

Opening a new Drop-In Center is a substantial investment, and we carefully evaluate several factors, including community needs and our available resources, before moving forward with a new site. If you’re interested in exploring this possibility, please email us at info@youth-outlook.org, and a member of our Operations and Programming team will be in touch.

Affirming programs for LGBTQ+ children in grades K–6 and their families.

Rainbow Sprouts offers fun, age-appropriate programming designed to help young LGBTQ+ children build confidence, friendships, and a sense of belonging. Activities are centered around themes chosen for children’s interests and needs, while caregivers have space to connect, share, and learn together. Facilitated by trained staff and guest speakers, Rainbow Sprouts nurtures both children and families with insightful, joyful support.

Rainbow Sprouts meets every 2nd and 4th Saturday from 1:00-3:00 PM in Aurora. There is no cost to attend. Please complete the registration form or email rainbowsprouts@youth-outlook.org with questions.

Rainbow Sprouts | Affirming programs for LGBTQ+ children in grades K–6 and their families

View Rainbow Sprouts Schedule

Funding for this project was provided in part by the Kane County Health Department.