Our Mission Statement
GLYS WNY builds affirming cultures and supportive communities for youth of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and gender expressions.
Our Purpose & Goals
GLYS provides a safe and positive environment for LGBTQ+ youth to learn more about themselves through peer interaction and educational experiences. The organization creates opportunities for emotional growth and community awareness.
Through GLYS outreach, other agencies learn about and increase their sensitivity to the needs of gender and sexual minority youth. GLYS provides LGBTQ+ youth with positive role models and a safe space, while promoting positive self-esteem and the integration of these youth into the larger community. GLYS can also assist youth and their families by providing resources and referrals.
Members range in age from 5-21 and represent many racial, ethnic, religious and class backgrounds.
Our Staff is also diverse in background, education, and experience. Each staff member is dedicated to serving LGBTQ+ youth.
Jack Kavanaugh
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.
Faith Winship
Faith began her career at GLYS as an intern and has recently taken over the role as Youth Leadership Coordinator. She manages our new GLYS SHINE Team, is the liaison for our GSA advisors, and encourages programing that promotes leadership qualities in our GLYS youth. Faith is trained in restorative justice and has a background in psychology, women, gender, and sexuality studies.
Al Ambrosio
They/Them
Kanienʼkehá꞉ka, Mohawk
Allie, or Al, began their work at GLYS as an MSW intern and now takes on the role of Case Manager for the Youth Gender Affirmation Program. They have a formal background in direct client services, restorative practices, trauma-informed care, and cultural humility.
Gi Swords
Gi took the position of Drop-In Center Advisor in November 2019. They plan activities and events for the youth, as well as coordinating with our volunteers. Gi is a two-term Americorps Alum with 5+ years of experience in youth services, and currently attends the MSW program at University at Buffalo.
Our Board of Directors
GLYS New York 2022
Board Member
Ed Drantch
President
Sheri Scavone
Board Member
Khristopher Decker
Vice President
John Carlino
Board Member
Dominic Cottone
Treasurer
Michael Kugel
Board Member
Michael Boucai
Board Member
Candice Fletcher-Pacheco
Secretary
Ifeoma Ifedigbo
Board Member
Darren Brown-Hall
Board Member
Finn Hennig
Board Member
Darlene Maclay
President Elect
Michael Wah
Board Member
Abigail Skinner
Board Member
Gerard Williams
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