OUTRight Youth of Catawba Valley

OUTRight Youth of Catawba Valley provides affirming spaces, youth programs, and peer support networks for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer youth across western North Carolina. Headquartered in Hickory and serving Catawba, Lincoln, and Alexander counties, the organization focuses on reducing social isolation and building supportive school and home environments where adolescents can flourish. The nonprofit works closely with youth, parents, educators, and community providers to promote adolescent mental health and civic wellbeing.

Core programming centers on structured peer support and life skills development for youth ages 10 to 21. The organization hosts weekly drop-in meetings where participants share personal experiences, learn stress-management techniques, access affirming literature, and build authentic friendships. To ensure regional accessibility across rural communities, OUTRight operates monthly satellite programs hosted at affirming partner venues, such as community churches in Taylorsville and Lincolnton, bringing vital connection closer to youth who face transportation hurdles.

Beyond youth drop-in gatherings, the organization actively fosters family understanding and community education. Adult facilitators provide compassionate guidance for parents navigating their child's coming-out process, connecting families with affirming counselors and healthcare specialists. The organization also offers educational workshops for area educators and youth workers on addressing bullying and implementing inclusive school policies. Youth and families connect with programs by attending open gatherings or reaching out directly to organizational leadership.