Who can attend?
YFT programs are open to any LGBTQ youth ages 14 -22 from Dallas and the surrounding areas. We are an all-inclusive group and while we have youth programs specifically for certain age/gender/ethnic youth groups, our programs are open to all youth.

What if I’m not 14?
As statistics show that the age for coming out is getting progressively younger, YFT strives to remain a place where any LGBTQ youth can find a safe space to express their true self. With an average age of around 18, however, younger youth should be aware that group discussions tend to focus on young adult topics ranging from safe sex to drugs.

Where are you located?
We are located at 3918 Harry Hines Boulevard Dallas, TX 75219

Here at YFT, we are very protective of one another, and we like to help people get to and from the center for activities and programs. If you are in need of transportation, please email us at info@youthfirsttexas.org to find out how we can help you arrive at our center safely.

We are also DART accessible. Please visit www.dart.org to find the best route.

Do I have to be LGBTQ to attend?
Not everyone who comes through YFT’s doors is LGBTQ. YFT also encourages straight Allies to attend our programs, events and other functions to promote advocacy and education.

What if my parents want to come?
YFT offers programs for youth and we encourage any parent to come with their youth and visit the center before group starts on a Thursday night. We also encourage parents to sit-in on one of the Thursday night groups to see what its all about.

Parents are encouraged to get involved with Youth First Texas as volunteers, future board members and of course, donors! YFT also works with P-FLAG which is a support organization for Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays. » Click here to find out more about the Dallas Chapter.

What about the adults involved?
All of the adults who volunteer with Youth First Texas are required to complete our “WORKING WITH YOUTH” : General Volunteer Training Class (8 hours). YFT also performs background checks on all volunteers prior to allowing the adults to interact with the youth of our program.

Is the Thursday night group a therapy group?
No Way!!!

The Thursday night groups are for the youth to interact with other youth and talk about what they want to talk about! Sometimes there are specific topics, sometimes its an open discussion, and sometimes we break down into smaller groups so everyone has a chance to talk.

Is it therapeutic at times, SURE!!!, but the Thursday night groups are not run by or facilitated by a licensed therapist. If you feel you would like to talk with a Therapist, YFT offers that service free of charge.

What if I don’t have any problems?
Youth First Texas, and specifically the Thursday night group, is for everyone, with or without problems. There are programs for youth with specific needs, but if you are just looking for interaction with peers and want to make new friends, then YFT is for you as well. We want to help all GLBTQ youth.

Is this a religious group?
No, Youth First Texas is not affiliated with any religious institution, and strives to jeep from promoting any one faith while also being open to all. Some of our community partners include Cathedral of Hope, St. Thomas the Episcopal, MCC Churches and the Unitarian Church of Dallas.

Is it all free?
All of the services provided by YFT are free of charge and most, if not all, of our social functions and parties are free of charge. Donations, mostly private and some through grants, make this all possible.

There are camping trips, out of town educational trips and other MAJOR events that do have an associated cost, but the youth raise the funds through car washes, garage sales and special events to attend these exciting events.