FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact Carisa Cunningham, (617) 426-1350

January 19, 2012

GLAD Selected to Receive Prestigious Boston Foundation Grant for Youth Work

Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders, whose lawsuits brought marriage equality to Massachusetts & Connecticut, has been chosen to receive a $100,000 grant from the Boston Foundation to expand its youth outreach.

The work will include addressing child welfare issues, promoting the Legal InfoLine to youth, collaborating with youth organizations, and seeking litigation opportunities to address discrimination against LGBTQ youth. According to the Boston Foundation, GLAD was chosen through “a highly competitive process whereby a limited number of organizations have been selected.”
 
“We are pleased to support GLAD’s continuing work to engage LGBTQ youth, their families, and the community organizations best positioned to support these young people. GLAD’s work is a critical part of ensuring social justice for all in the Commonwealth,” said Paul Grogan, President and CEO of the Boston Foundation.

Vickie Henry, the GLAD attorney charged with leading this effort, says, “We are thrilled that the Boston Foundation is supporting this vital work.  LGBTQ youth are coming out at a younger age and are particularly vulnerable.  We as a community need to support them, including by educating youth on their rights and, when necessary, bringing suit to make sure they are protected. We have been and will continue to reach out to organizations working with youth to look for opportunities to leverage GLAD’s unique legal expertise to create a just, inclusive and affirming environment for LGBTQ youth.”