Have a Question? Maybe Pride Project can help!
Basic QuestionsBasic Questions
What are Pride Project and SMYRC?
SMYRC (Sexual Minority Youth Resource Center) is a non-profit organization in Portland, OR founded in 1993 whose mission is to build safe space for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LBGTQ) youth age 23 and under through nurturing their health and well-being and enhancing pride and self-esteem. SMYRC has a recreation center in SE Portland. The Pride Project is a program for LGBTQ youth in Washington County, part of SMYRC.
What does Pride Project do for youth?
Pride Project offers groups for queer youth in Hillsboro and Beaverton and also organizes social and educational activities.
What do I expect when I participate in the Pride Project?
"Its awesome! You can be who you want to be and no one will tell you any differently! I love it!" - Pride Project Youth
"You walk through the door of SMYRC and you come into the hang out area, just like the one I have at home. There are lots of fun things to do like watch movies, play basketball, read, or go onto the internet. Lots of snacks and drinks, too...and all for free! There isn't a better place to feel safe and have fun and be comfortable with who you are!" - SMYRC Youth
All services provided by the Pride Project are FREE and confidential.
When do Pride Project support groups meet?
Meeting times for Pride Project's support groups are as follows:
What can I do if I can't get a ride to Pride Project events? Is there still support for me?
The SMYRC Drop-In Center is bus accessible. You can take the Bus #15 Belmont and it will drop you off a block from the center. Buses are available every day til midnight. Both Pride Project groups are on the MAX line. See a staff member for free bus tickets.
What does LBGTQ stand for?
LBGTQ is an acronym that stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning. SMYRC and Pride Project are safe places for youth to find support for who they are regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation.
Does Pride Project offer HIV testing?
SMYRC does offer free anonymous HIV testing using a 99% accurate oral HIV test without taking blood or using needles. Call SMYRC (503) 872-9664 X27, to get more information. There is also free and confidential testing in Washington County through the health department. Call 846.8851 for an appointment.
What if you are under 23 and are confused about your sexuality, do you automatically get labeled as gay or lesbian?
Visiting the SMYRC Drop-In Center or coming to the Pride Project is NOT a statement of sexual orientation or gender identity, nor do we tell a person he/she is gay, lesbian, bi or trans. It is a safe place to discover your feelings and get educated on what's out there and how to be safe.
I've been out for a couple of years now and don't really need support, what does Pride Project have for me?
Pride Project offers a wide range of activities to get involved in. Pride Project also has lots of cool educational and recreational activities that may want to participate in. You can offer support to other youth by becoming a mentor, learning to becoming a facilitator for a group. Be a part of Pride Project Leadership where youth create and plan activities ranging from an alternative prom to rallies in support of human rights. You'll find the friends you make at Pride Project will last a lifetime.
How do I contact Pride Project?
To contact the Pride Project, call 503-260-5792 and by e-mail Molly@prideproject.org
What kind of privacy policy is in place for Pride Project?
Your participation is completely confidential, though many activities take place in public places. You are welcome to talk with the Pride Project coordinator one on one in a confidential location..
Questions About Volunteering and Getting Involved
I am an adult in the community, what can I do for SMYRC and Pride Project?
You can volunteer at the Drop-In Center or be involved in the mentor/tutor program. Adults are also trained to facilitate support groups. Adults as well as youth serve on the Board of Directors, and assist SMYRC and Pride Project with fundraising, building maintenance and youth programs.
"I never thought I could make a different. SMYRC's mentoring program only takes a few hours a month. But the look on the youth's face, just to be there for them. Its very meaningful and I love to give back." -One of the SMYRC Adults, Volunteer
"I've found a sense of purpose. Its nice to give back to the community. SMYRC really makes it rewarding." -One of the SMYRC Adults, Volunteer
How do I sign up to volunteer with Pride Project?
Call Molly at 260.5792.
How do I donate money, goods or services or Pride Project?
You can send donations to SMYRC, 2100 SE Belmont, OR 97214. Make checks payable to Pride Project, or call the Pride Project Coordinator to talk to someone about donating goods or services. Pride Project is a 501(c)3 tax exempt organization. All donations are tax-deductible.