LGBT Fund of The Erie Community Foundation Awards $15,000 to Compton’s Table to Support LGBTQ+ Youth Programs
March 21, 2025
Compton’s Table is dedicated to fostering connection, support, and empowerment for LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly in areas where resources may be limited. Research highlights that queer young people face disproportionately high rates of anxiety, depression, and social isolation, underscoring the urgent need for supportive community spaces.
True North is a four-session life skills and empowerment program tailored for LGBTQ+ youth and young adults, typically ages 16–24. The program equips participants with essential skills in budgeting, self-care, career development, and self-advocacy. By encouraging confidence and resilience, True North helps combat risk factors associated with mental health challenges and provides a foundation for a more secure future.
Chat n’ Chill offers a recurring peer social group where LGBTQ+ youth can connect in a safe, welcoming environment. These gatherings provide judgment-free spaces for open conversations and structured activities, helping to alleviate feelings of isolation while building a strong, affirming community.
Photo: Individuals representing Compton's Table holding the $15,000 check they were presented with to support youth programming.
“Supportive spaces like True North and Chat n’ Chill are essential to the well-being of queer youth,” said Founder and Board Chair, Compton’s Table, Dr. Tyler Titus. “These programs not only offer guidance and social connection, but they also reinforce the message that LGBTQ+ young people are valued and supported.”
The impact of these programs is backed by national research. Studies from The Trevor Project highlight that LGBTQ+ youth who have access to positive and supportive social environments experience significantly lower rates of mental health distress and suicide risk. Stats show that just one accepting adult in a queer young person’s life can reduce their risk of suicide by 40%.
“As an endowed fund of The Erie Community Foundation, the LGBT Fund is committed to supporting organizations that make a tangible difference in the lives of LGBTQ+ individuals in our community,” said Director of Collective Giving Olivia Burgess of The Erie Community Foundation. “Compton’s Table is doing vital work to create safe, empowering spaces for LGBT youth, and funding their efforts strengthens impact.”
Community support remains crucial to the success of these initiatives. Compton’s Table invites individuals and organizations to recognize and invest in programs like True North and Chat n’ Chill, ensuring that all young people in Erie County have access to affirming resources and connections.
Photo: LGBT Fund Board Members from left, Bill Gonda, Shari Gross and Blane Dessy.
For more information about Compton’s Table or to get involved with these programs, please visit www.comptonstable.org or contact info@comptonstable.org. For more information about The Erie Community Foundation and the LGBT Fund, please visit www.ErieCommunityFoundation.org.
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The Erie Community Foundation’s mission is to inspire, engage and empower donors and communities across the region, today and tomorrow. We envision a united, vibrant, and thriving region for all. The Foundation signed the Nonprofit Partnership’s Diversity Equity & Inclusion Pledge in 2019 to demonstrate our commitment to our community. To learn more visit www.ErieCommunityFoundation.or....