For more than 25 years, Safe Homes has been providing space in and around Worcester, Mass. where LGBTQ youth can feel affirmed, supported and connected with folks who understand their journey. What explains the organization’s continued success? Adaptability. For instance, when COVID came along and turned the world topsy-turvy, Safe Homes relocated its drop-in meetings, workshops (such as a recent “Allyship 101” lesson) and other programs to the web via Zoom—and now the outfit is once again bringing its annual People of Courage Awards and fundraising gala to the virtual world. If last year’s online installment was any indication, expect more musical performances and special appearances by queer notables (figure skater Johnny Weir and Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey were among those who appeared during the 2021 event). It’s all to benefit work that is even more vital in these still-isolating times for LGBTQ young people.
| When | Where | How |
| April 8 | virtual event | safehomesma.org |
