Our Purpose

Create a Supportive Community: We aim to connect LGBTQIA+ teenagers and their allies with peers and understanding mentors within a shared cultural and spiritual context.
Promote Belonging: Our conference emphasizes the importance of feeling accepted and valued, creating a space where youth can connect authentically.
Encourage Spiritual Exploration: We offer faith-affirming content that respects and celebrates the intersection of faith and LGBTQIA+ identity, providing generalized spiritual practices and practical techniques for personal growth, regardless of individual paths within or outside of the Church.
Provide Practical Tools: Through engaging presentations and discussions, we equip youth with valuable skills in areas like mental health, communication, and healthy relationships.

Who We Serve

The Belong Youth Conference is for youth who will be 14 in 2025 (even if they’re still 13 at the time of the conference) through those who turn 18 or are graduating high school in 2025. We welcome LGBTQIA+ youth and their supportive friends (allies). If a youth feels more comfortable attending with a friend, they can designate them during registration, and we will ensure they are grouped together.

What to Expect

Our multi-day conference is filled with a variety of activities including active games, crafting, large presentations, and small group discussions. The ticket cost covers the venue, all activities, meals (dinner on day 1, lunch and dinner on days 2 and 3), a T-shirt, handbook, and bag. Overnight accommodations and transportation are not included.

While the conference is designed for youth, we will have opportunities for parents and guardians to connect through a kick-off meeting, a dedicated parent session, and an end-of-conference social event.