Our Mission
The mission of The Laurel Foundation is to empower children, youth, and families to thrive in environments built on trust, integrity, and mutual respect, creating compassionate, confident leaders.
Through year round mental health support, education, and youth leadership development programs, we empower children, youth and families to thrive in environments built on trust, integrity, and mutual respect, building compassion, confident leaders. . Together, we celebrate our unique strengths, find joy in connection, and nurture each person’s extraordinary potential.
Volunteer
Make a direct impact on the life of a child and become a volunteer. We guarantee that your life will never be the same!
Programs
The Laurel Foundation offers resident and day camp programs for at-promise youth (transgender/gender-diverse youth, youth impacted by HIV/AIDS, and young key populations at risk of HIV, ages 6-17).
Donate
It costs $2,600 to send a child/youth to camp for a week. Your tax-deductible donation will help us to serve the many transgender/gender diverse youth, at-promise youth and youth impacted by HIV/AIDS populations who are in need of our services. Donate Now
Founded in 1993, The Laurel Foundation’s cost-free educational and support camp programs impact the lives of over 503 transgender / gender-diverse youth, and vulnerable youth at risk of HIV each year. Our programs are a powerful antidote to the challenges of living with an illness or facing social isolation issues, by improving the well-being of the youth, bringing a sense of hope and joy to those we serve.
Participants Served in 2024
New Infections Each Year
% Served Below Poverty Line
Volunteers in 2024
OUR OUTCOMES
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INDEPENDENCE
Youth develop the confidence and practical life skills needed to make informed decisions, take responsibility for themselves, and navigate daily challenges with increasing independence.
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SELF-ADVOCACY
Youth learn to identify their needs, set healthy boundaries, and confidently advocate for themselves in educational, social, and personal settings.
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COMMUNITY
Youth develop a sense of belonging and shared responsibility, building supportive relationships and learning how to contribute positively to a caring and inclusive community.
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SELF - EMPOWERMENT
Youth build a strong sense of self-worth and agency, recognizing their strengths and believing in their ability to shape their own futures.
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COMMUNICATION
Youth strengthen their ability to express thoughts, feelings, and needs clearly and respectfully, fostering healthier relationships and meaningful connections with others.
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RESILIENCE
Youth gain coping strategies and emotional tools that help them adapt, persevere, and grow through adversity, stress, and life transitions.