Boston GLBTQ+ Adolescent Social Services (GLASS) is a program managed by the Justice Resource Institute (JRI) in Boston, Massachusetts, that offers free health and support services to LGBTQ+ youth of color, youth living with HIV, and their allies (ages 13-29) in the Greater Boston area.[1][2][3]

History and Mission

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History

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Founded in 1995, Boston GLASS emerged in response to the limited resources available for LGBTQ+ youth, who frequently faced unique health risks, social isolation, and discrimination.[1] Recognizing a gap in services for this group, particularly for LGBTQ+ youth of color, JRI established Boston GLASS as one of the first programs in the Boston area to address these specific needs.[4][5]

Initially focused on providing HIV prevention and support services in the context of the HIV/AIDS crisis, Boston GLASS expanded over time to include a range of health and wellness resources in response to the broader social and mental health challenges faced by LGBTQ+ youth. Through ongoing partnerships with local health and social services, Boston GLASS has adapted its offerings to address changing community needs, incorporating mental health counseling, basic resources, and leadership programs. Boston GLASS predominantly serves Black and Latinx youth.[5][6]

Programs & Services

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Boston GLASS currently offers a variety of culturally-relevant wraparound services for LGBTQ+ youth, including mental health counseling, HIV and STI testing, and prevention resources. The program also provides skill development opportunities through youth leadership and mentorship initiatives, basic needs support with essential items, and social activities, such as vogueing classes.[1][3][7][6]

References

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  1. ^ a b c Raman, Meera. "Boston GLASS project's 'Vogue Hour' provides a safe haven for LGTBQ+ youth". MetroWest Daily News. Retrieved 2024-11-12.
  2. ^ "Boston GLASS". oge.harvard.edu. Retrieved 2024-11-12.
  3. ^ a b "GLASS (GLBTQ+ Adolescent Social Services) | Justice Resource Institute". jri.org. Retrieved 2024-11-12.
  4. ^ "GLASS Reflects". GLASS Reflects. Retrieved 2024-11-12.
  5. ^ a b "How Voguing Became a Competitive Sport at an Elite Boston College". www.advocate.com. Retrieved 2024-11-12.
  6. ^ a b "In the Boston Metro Area, a Tale of Two HIV Epidemics Emerges". TheBody. 2019-12-17. Retrieved 2024-11-12.
  7. ^ Avenue, 677 Huntington; Boston; Ma 02115 (2023-11-01). "One thing everyone should know about community-engaged research". News. Retrieved 2024-11-12.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)
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