He/Him

Jack is a social worker with over 15 years experience in youth programs and nonprofits. Jack brings his passion for supporting LGBTQ+ youth and a deep roots in Western New York to provide GLYS the resources and support we need to provide excellent services and advocacy for our youth and their families.

She/They

A retired pastry chef, Leah came to GLYS in September 2022, with a background in Anthropology & Arts/Media Management from SUNY Purchase College. Leah has over 10 years experience in program curating, social/mass media, marketing and event planning, and has held leadership roles in youth programs throughout New York State. Having taken advantage of GLYS as a teenager herself, to work here is an opportunity to work for something that matters to her, personally, and professionally. 

They/Them

Gi began as a volunteer at GLYS in 2019 and became the Director of Programs in June 2024. They completed two full-time Americorps terms of service and have 10+ years of experience in youth, school-based, and community programming. They hold a Master of Social Work degree from the University at Buffalo and are a field educator for students at the University at Buffalo and Daemen  University.

​

She/Her

Faith began her career at GLYS as an intern and is our current Community Programs Manager. She works with school districts across WNY to make sure our LGBTQ+ students are safe at school by working with administrators, educators, students and GSAs - she is also GLYS' GSA Advisor Liaison. Faith is trained in restorative justice and has a background in psychology, women, gender, and sexuality studies.

They/Them

Begonia/Zeke Garcia joined the GLYS team in August of 2024 as the Pathways Case Manager. Zeke is a local artist and has a background in clinical services and diversity, equity, and inclusion. Begonia holds an MSW from the University of Denver and brings a social work perspective to their familiarity with the systems of various clinical service providers in WNY. Zeke deeply values community wellbeing and personal autonomy, especially in the queer community. Their firsthand experience as well as their professional experience makes them uniquely suited to help queer community members navigate the systems of the services they need to thrive in life. At the heart of Begonia’s social work practice is the firm belief that every person should have the right to the means necessary to truly enjoy their life as their authentic self.

They/Them

Claire came to GLYS in November 2024 as our School Support Coordinator. Claire has a background in reproductive health counseling, disability and health law, and domestic violence advocacy in Western New York. They have a strong passion for community activism and local music & art. Their consistent willingness to learn and passion for LGBTQ+ related issues make them a great fit as School Support Coordinator. 

They/Them

Blaise Mercedes (they/them) is a Youth Peer Advocate specializing in empowering historically underserved youth and young adults aged 10-21. They've worked through GLYS WNY for over 1 year and provide direct youth support for young people across WNY. GLYS WNY services LGBTQ+ youth and their through direct support and community engagement.

Leveraging their personal journey through unstable housing, parental substance abuse, and mental health challenges, Blaise offers sensitive support to youth and their families.

They/Them

Payton began at GLYS in 2024 as a Youth Peer Advocate to build their community up for queer youth. They hold an Associates Degree in Marketing and Management from Jamestown Business College. Having resided in Chautauqua County their whole life, they are familiar with the trials and tribulations a queer person can face in a more rural area. As an avid baker, birder, musician, actor, and athlete, Payton is involved with large parts of their community and is dedicated to extending that community to the queer youth they see. With their jack of all trades attitude, Payton is excited to extend GLYS' reach to Chautauqua and Cattaraugus Counties in their position as a Youth Peer Advocate.

They/Them

Sarah began at GLYS as an intern through the University at Buffalo's Master of Social Work program and became the Family Support Coordinator in the fall of 2023. They have over 10 years of experience working with LGBTQ+ youth and families as well as many years of experience working in education. Sarah holds an MSW from UB and is currently a PhD student in the Social Welfare program where their research area focuses on LGBTQ+ youth and experiences of identity.

She/They

Ellowen is an AmeriCorps VISTA member, in her first year of service with GLYS that began in August 2024. After growing up in West Seneca and studying at Utica University, she has cultivated a background and education in Political Science, Human Rights Advocacy, and Community Engagement through terms at Utica University's K. Della Ferguson Women's Resource Center and their Division of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion. Ellowen also has experience in leadership at Utica University's GSA, and is excited to carry the communal spirit of GSA gatherings to WNY elementary & high school GSA visits as a member as the Community Programs Team. Overall, Shea is passionate about engaging with GLYS's vast network of community connections while fostering and facilitating collaboration within the wider WNY community.

She/Her

​Jare is a writer, director, musician, and community organizer with an extensive background in youth programming, arts events organizing, and arts education. She holds a BFA in Acting from Nazareth University, as well as a BA in English from the University at Buffalo. She became the Youth Mentor at GLYS in early 2024 with the goal of being the queer adult in the lives of youth that she was looking for in her own adolescence. She helps run the drop-in center, as well as organize programming and events. She is incredibly excited for opportunities to engage with multiple communities in ways that are meaningful, compassionate, safety-based, and fun.