Our Purpose and Vision
Vision
At Friends of Ruby, our vision is of a world where all 2SLGBTQIA+ young people feel validated, involved, and empowered to lead healthier lives.
Mission
We are dedicated to the well-being of 2SLGBTQIA+ young people (16–29) through mental health, social, and housing services.
At a time of rising costs of living and anti-2SLGBTQIA+ hate, our affirming services and welcoming community are needed more than ever. Our 2026-28 Strategic Plan will nurture Friends of Ruby’s core services (community mental health, social, and housing services) and invest in robust systems to support our growth, now and in the long-term.
Our Values in Action
People First
We prioritize the well-being, development and needs of people – including all participants, employees, community members, donors and everyone engaged with Friends of Ruby.
Care
Our work is founded on radical, trauma-informed care – meaning kindness, compassion, empathy, and curiosity guide every interaction. By integrating an understanding of trauma’s impact, we contribute to wellbeing, community, and systemic change.
Proud & Affirming
We are proud of our 2SLGBTQIA+ identities, communities, braveness, and resiliency. We celebrate the unique identities of every person -including gender, sexuality, race, abilities, and class – affirming each individual and prioritizing autonomy and connection.
Anti-Oppressive & Anti-Racist
We are committed to creating a welcoming and affirming space where all voices are heard and contribute. We actively challenge colonial structures, including binary gender concepts, and are accountable to the communities we represent, serve, and identify with.
Continuous Learning
We are committed to creating a welcoming and affirming space where all voices are heard and contribute. We actively challenge colonial structures, including binary gender concepts, and are accountable to the communities we represent, serve, and identify with.
Collaborative
We believe in the power of collaboration, open communication, and respecting diverse contributions. We actively work across all differences to find solutions collectively, fostering a supportive environment that harnesses diverse perspectives and skills to create a workplace and service we are proud of.
Strategic Directions & Priorities
Click through the tabs to view all four directions.
Our Approach to Service Delivery
Affirming
Centred on 2SLGBTQIA+ experiences and its intersectionalities.
Focused
Centred on young people and tailored to support their multiple needs.
Holistic
Encompassing mind, body, emotions, community.
Informed by best practices
Based on trauma-informed, anti-oppression, anti-racism, harm reduction, sex-positive, and strengths-based approaches.
Resources & Downloads
Download this Strategic Plan
Explore related resources
We welcome you to join us in our mission to create spaces where all 2SLGBTQIA+ young people are empowered to thrive.
Together, we’re building a future where all 2SLGBTQIA+ young people are recognized as unique, precious, and worthy of care. With your support, more is possible.