Youth Outlook staff bring together nonprofit professionals, experienced social workers, skilled educators, thoughtful storytellers, and trained program leaders dedicated to supporting LGBTQ+ youth and families across northern and central Illinois. Working collaboratively across roles and communities, the team helps create affirming spaces where young people feel safe, supported, and celebrated.
Youth Outlook’s Executive Director joined us midway through our first year, providing expert guidance for over two decades. Under their leadership, Youth Outlook has grown from a volunteer-run social group with a single Drop-in Center to a thriving statewide social services agency that serves thousands of LGBTQ+ youth each year, offers family support, health and wellness services, and professional development and education programs. They are an author, activist, and highly sought-after national speaker.
The Director of Operations and Programming is a licensed clinical social worker with over a decade of experience working with the LGBTQ+ community. She leads Youth Outlook’s direct services, ensuring program quality, consistency, and staff support across 16+ sites. Her depth of experience in program implementation steers continuous improvement in youth, family, and community-based services, including a robust community education and professional development program.
Youth Outlook’s Director of Development and Strategic Initiatives is a credentialed nonprofit expert, including a Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership and a Certified Administrator of Volunteer Services. Having devoted her career to the nonprofit sector, she applies her extensive experience to leading strategic initiatives that support Youth Outlook’s sustainability and drive growth. She partners with staff and board members to strengthen donor relationships and expand Youth Outlook’s visibility.
Program Leaders are the heart of Youth Outlook’s work, serving as the primary point of connection for LGBTQ+ youth and young adults in Drop-In Centers and program spaces. They facilitate groups, build trusted relationships, and ensure programs remain welcoming, consistent, and youth-informed week after week.
Youth Outlook’s Health and Wellness Navigators provide individualized support for LGBTQ+ youth, young adults, and families seeking affirming physical and mental healthcare. Navigators assist with referrals, care coordination, insurance navigation, and connection to vetted providers and essential resources throughout Illinois.
Through education and training, Youth Outlook’s Affirming Care Education Specialist supports community understanding of affirming care. They partner with healthcare providers, schools, and community organizations to strengthen inclusive practices and reduce barriers to care, particularly for transgender and gender-expansive individuals.
The Special Events & Social Media Coordinator plays an essential role in sharing Youth Outlook’s story and strengthening community engagement. She leads social media strategy and content creation, highlighting programs and impact. She also supports the planning and execution of events that amplify Youth Outlook’s mission.
The administrative team provides essential support that helps sustain Youth Outlook’s internal operations and organizational stability. The team efficiently supports day-to-day operations, financial processes, and internal systems, allowing program and leadership staff to focus on serving LGBTQ+ youth and families.
Learn more about internship and employment opportunities, or consider volunteering or joining the Board of Directors to contribute your skills in support of LGBTQ+ youth.