Empowered, Independent Living
As a result from the work we do, youth have said they experience an increased sense of confidence and self-esteem, as well as a better awareness of personal mental health triggers. At Friends of Ruby, they learn coping and stress management skills and how to reduce internalized shame, rejecting harmful narratives in favour of resilience and hope.
IMPACT STORY
For a long time, I had to deal with depression and anxiety. Friends of Ruby is the place I’ve felt welcome and free. I’ve been able to meet new people who think and see the world from a similar perspective as I do, and even those who have a different view of it, helped me to understand more of life.
It was at Friends of Ruby that I was comfortable to come out as trans, and throughout counseling, I learned to embrace my identity and I found my strength to come out to my family and friends, I wouldn’t be more grateful to Friends of Ruby for allowing and supporting 2SLGBTQIA+ folks to be themselves; Friends are like family.
– Aurora, Participant and Youth Committee Delegate
Our Impact
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Over 1,000 youth supported, with 15 to 25 new youth accessing the center every month. -
More than 470 mental health crises diverted and visits to hospital emergency rooms prevented
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In 2021 we hosted 919 case management sessions
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Last year we provided 1,544 counselling sessions where youth can, individually or in group, learn coping skills and engage with topics related to gender identity and sexual orientation.
Support Us
Donate
When you give to Friends of Ruby, you directly support essential services for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth. We provide meals, groceries, community programming, practical supports and mental health services.
Support Friends of Ruby
When you give to Friends of Ruby, you directly support essential services for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth. We provide meals, groceries and mental health supports for vulnerable youth.
Volunteer
Volunteers are an essential part of our organization and support staff and youth in different capacities. As a volunteer you’d play a vital role in our mission, while gaining valuable experience and developing new skills.
