NAPERVILLE, Ill., December 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ – Youth Outlook, Illinois’ first and longest-running social services agency dedicated to supporting LGBTQ+ youth, has been named a 2025 Illinois Human Rights Award recipient by the Illinois Department of Human Rights (IDHR). The award was presented today in Chicago during a ceremony commemorating International Human Rights Day, where Youth Outlook was honored alongside Mano a Mano Family Resource Center.
The Illinois Human Rights Award recognizes organizations and individuals whose work advances civil rights, promotes equity, and ensures that all Illinois residents can live with dignity. Youth Outlook was recognized for its statewide network of Drop-In Centers, caregiver and family programs, Health and Wellness Navigation, and Community Education and Professional Development, which together serve LGBTQ+ youth and young adults ages 5-24 in communities across Illinois.
“Human rights begin with us. When we speak up against unfairness and listen to those whose voices are often ignored, we build a culture of dignity around us,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “I’m proud to congratulate Youth Outlook and Mano a Mano Family Resource Center, two organizations that embody what it means to stand up for human rights. Their essential work in Illinois is more important now than ever. As the federal government continues its hateful attacks against the LGBTQ+ community and immigrant families, these organizations are here to remind us: In Illinois, you belong.”
“Being recognized by the Illinois Department of Human Rights is deeply validating, because it tells our youth and families that their lives and stories matter to this state,” said Youth Outlook Executive Director Nancy Mullen. “This award belongs to every young person who has walked through our Drop-In Center doors, every parent who has chosen to reach out for support, and every volunteer and staff member who has shown up day after day for the last 27 years. It strengthens our resolve to keep building an Illinois where LGBTQ+ youth are safe, supported, and celebrated in every community.”
“These organizations embody Illinois’ commitment to protecting human dignity for everyone,” said Deputy Governor Grace Hou. “Whether supporting LGBTQ+ youth who need affirming spaces or immigrant families navigating complex systems, Youth Outlook and Mano a Mano ensure that our most vulnerable community members have access to the services and support that are their human right. Their work reflects the best of who we are as Illinoisans.”
“Both of these organizations understand that human rights work is not theoretical—it’s about ensuring that every person can access the everyday essentials of a dignified life,” said IDHR Director Jim Bennett. “Youth Outlook and Mano a Mano are on the front lines, defending the rights of communities that too often face discrimination and exclusion. Their work makes Illinois stronger, and we are honored to recognize their leadership.”
Youth Outlook programs are offered at no cost to LGBTQ+ youth and young adults ages 5-24, as well as caregivers and parents, through virtual and in-person services across Illinois. For information about programs, visit youth-outlook.org
About Youth Outlook
Founded in 1998, Youth Outlook is Illinois’ first and longest-running social services agency dedicated to supporting LGBTQ+ youth. We provide the care and community LGBTQ+ young people need to thrive, offering statewide services, including virtual and in-person programs for youth and young adults ages 5-24, caregiver and parent support, health and wellness navigation, and community education and professional development. Youth Outlook is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
Media contact: media@youth-outlook.org
