Rhode Island: Building Capacity for LGBTQ Youth

The Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE) and Youth Pride, Inc. (YPI) have had a long standing collaboration to reach at-risk sexual minority youth.

With funding from CDC/DASH, through RIDE, YPI re-constituted the Statewide Task Force on LGBTQ Youth in 2005 and is now an ongoing group of statewide educators, directors and advocates.

The Task Force updated and revised its 2006 recommendation in 2009 and developed an updated workplan. RIDE HIV/Sexuality Specialist also worked closely with YPI to identify key HIV prevention opportunities. With funding from the Rhode Island Department of Health, through RIDE, YPI implemented a strategic planning process that resulted in a 5 year plan. This plan addresses at risk sexual minority youth in the areas of HIV prevention, tobacco use and obesity.

The plan will guide YPI and help ensure an infrastructure and programs that will be sustainable through 2015.

• Contact Person: Anne Marie Silvia
• Email Address: annemarie.silvia@ride.ri.gov
• Website Address: http://www.thriveri.gov/