This is a brief overview of the QCAD Youth Services Center located at 1608 Second Avenue Rock Island, Illinois 61201.
THE QCAD COMMUNITY CENTER
Finding a place where you belong and feel accepted is a challenge most teenagers face. But a young person who identifies as gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender, is perceived that way, or is questioning his or her sexual orientation or gender identity, often finds it especially hard to make supportive friends.
Also, GLBT teens often deal with more than the usual friction when dealing with parents, teachers and other adults.
If you are or think you may be gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender, you are not alone. Many other teens in the Quad Cities know what you are going through at school, at home and even in the confusing territory of gay relationships. These teens and their allies have found a fun, safe place to hang out and meet new people at QCAD.
QCAD's YOUTH DROP IN
Anyone between the ages of 13 and 19 years old is welcome at QCAD's youth drop ins. They come to watch movies, play air hockey, play games or just talk. The center also offers a library and Internet access.
QCAD's youth drop in takes place every Sunday and Tuesday from 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm. As the name suggests, you may "drop in" whenever you like during those hours.
Nobody who comes is asked to tell fellow drop in youth what their sexual orientation is or may be, though you will be asked to fill out an intake sheet for database and fundraising purposes.
The drop in also is an alcohol and drug-free space, and does not allow smoking.
YOUTH LEADERSHIP
Drop in participants who want to be more involved with QCAD and drop in programming can join the leadership committee.
This committee plans youth events, including Gay Prom and Homecoming Dances and summer events.
