LGBTQ Center of the Finger Lakes

The LGBTQ Center of the Finger Lakes is a dedicated regional advocacy program operated by Family Counseling Service of the Finger Lakes, providing vital resources, peer connection, and clinical support for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer individuals and families across Ontario, Wayne, Seneca, Yates, Cayuga, and Monroe counties. Based at the agency’s central office on South Exchange Street in Geneva, the center serves as a welcoming hub for rural and semi-rural queer communities.

The center coordinates several core peer support groups designed to foster resilience and mutual support. For adolescents, the YANA (You Are Not Alone) group provides a weekly virtual safe space for youth ages 10 to 17 to connect and discuss identity. For adults, the Haven support group offers hybrid bi-weekly community discussions, while the Trans and Gender Expansive Coalition brings together transgender and gender-diverse individuals for peer mentoring and resources. In addition, the organization provides specialized victim advocacy services, assisting LGBTQ+ survivors of domestic violence, hate crimes, sexual assault, and stalking with emergency safety planning, legal navigation, and counseling referrals.

Staff advocates also assist community members in accessing affirming medical care and completing legal name changes. Individuals and families can access support groups and advocacy services by contacting the Geneva office. Supporters can get involved by attending regional events, advocating for inclusive rural healthcare, or making charitable contributions through Family Counseling Service of the Finger Lakes.