Who can attend?
YFT is open to all LGBT and allied youth through the age of 22.

Am I too young?
While YFT used to serve ages 14 through 22, research shows that the average age for coming out is getting progressively younger and there is a neet for services to LGBT-identified youth under the age of 14.  As such, YFT no longer has a minimum age for services, however, younger youth should be aware  that group discussions tend to focus on teenage and young adult topics that include safe sex to drugs. If you are unsure, please feel free to contact us before coming for a visit.  Parents of younger youth are always welcome.

Where are you located?
Our main center is located at 3918 Harry Hines Boulevard in Dallas, Texas, between Oak Lawn Avenue and Wycliff Avenue.  YFT is accessible via DART as the Green Line Market Center Station is one block north of us and the 027 bus stops right in front of the center.  Please visit www.dart.org to find the best route.

Do I have to be LGBT to attend?
Absolutely not! While our focus is on LGBT youth, not everyone who comes through YFT’s doors is LGBT.  YFT encourages straight Allies to attend our programs, events and other functions to promote advocacy and education.

What if my parents want to come?
YFT offers programs for youth and we encourage any parent to come with their youth and visit the center.  We also encourage parents to sit-in on one of the Thursday night groups to see what its all about.  Parents who are not trained volunteers are asked to stay in the common areas or be escorted by a trained volunteer or staff member at all times.  We strongly encourage parents who wish to attent regularly with their youth to get involved as volunteers and, of course, donors!

What about the adults involved?
All of the adults who volunteer with YFT are required to submit a complete volunteer application, go through a background check, and attend our “Working with LGBT Youth” training class before working directly with any youth.

Is the Thursday night “Big Group” a therapy group?
No Way!  Thursday night groups are for youth to interact with other youth and talk about what they want to talk about. Sometimes there are specific topics with guest speakers, sometimes we have an open discussion, and sometimes we break down into smaller groups so everyone has a chance to talk.

What if I don’t have any problems?
YFT is for everyone, with or without problems.  While we have several programs designed for youth with specific needs, YFT is a place where you can interact with your peers and make new friends.  We are here for all LGBT youth.

Is this a religious group?
No, YFT is not a religious group, is not affiliated with any religious institution, and strives to keep from promoting any one faith while also being open to all.

Is it all free?
All of the services provided by YFT are free of charge and most, if not all, of our social functions and parties are free of charge. Donations, mostly private and some through grants, make this all possible. Certain other MAJOR events (including out-of-town education trips) may have an associated cost, but the youth raise the necessary funds through car washes, garage sales and other fund raising events.