Programs & Services
Policy Advocacy
Safe Schools South Florida collaborates with schools, school districts, and government agencies to advocate for policies that protect LGBTQ+ students and educators. Our initiatives ensure that inclusive, non-discriminatory practices are implemented and maintained, fostering safer and more supportive learning environments.
Safe Schools Training Series
Our comprehensive training series provides the latest information on creating safer learning environments for LGBTQ+ youth and their allies. We work with school districts and community organizations to deliver these trainings, which include modules on HIV/AIDS education, anti-bullying strategies, and intersectional support.
Individual School Workshops
Tailored to meet the unique needs of individual schools, our workshops engage administration, counseling personnel, and teachers. These sessions cover a range of topics, including HIV/AIDS awareness, safe sex education, and strategies to support LGBTQ+ students effectively.
Youth Empowerment
We host Youth Leadership Summit and Gay Straight Alliance Empowerment Day activities, bringing LGBTQ+ youth and their allies together to build positive self-perception and empowered self-care. These events focus on developing leadership and advocacy skills, with a strong emphasis on HIV/AIDS prevention and sex education.
Youth Speaker Training
Youth speakers and panelists are a compelling part of our training series, providing personal insights that add depth to the statistical data. These young advocates share their experiences, emphasizing the importance of HIV/AIDS awareness and the impact of comprehensive sex education.
Youth Scholarships
The Robert E. Loupo, Jr. “Legacy of Change” Scholarship is awarded to graduating seniors who have shown dedication to advocating for the dignity, rights, and equality of the LGBTQ+ community. This scholarship supports their continued education and activism.
SpeakOUT Bureau
Our volunteer speakers bureau comprises successful professionals of all ages and backgrounds with personal connections to LGBTQ+ issues. They visit schools to share their stories with LGBTQ+ students, allies, and supportive parent groups, fostering understanding and support.
Digital Programs and Videos
In response to the evolving needs of our community, Safe Schools has developed a robust digital presence. Our virtual programming includes shows like “Tiffany Explains It All,” “The Tea With Eddie,” and “Taboo Talk with David.” These series focus on HIV/AIDS education, STI/STD prevention, and comprehensive sex education, reaching thousands of viewers across platforms like TikTok and Meta.
(Coming Soon) Nehushtan Wellness Initiative
Launching in fall 2024, the Nehushtan Wellness Initiative, in partnership with No Reservations, aims to establish HIV testing centers at three African-American Methodist Churches in Miami-Dade. These centers will provide testing, prevention, and education services to communities with historically high new HIV infection rates, addressing the stigma and offering crucial support.
(Coming Soon) Safe Schools Health Hub
Our forthcoming Safe Schools Health Hub will be an interactive online resource featuring HIV/AIDS and STI/STD education. This hub will include special episodes from our digital programs, providing comprehensive information and support to LGBTQ+ youth and their families.
Achievements and Recognition
We have trained approximately 20,000 educators throughout South Florida, positively impacting the lives of an estimated 3 million students. Our work has been recognized nationally by the American Federation of Teachers and statewide by the Florida Governor’s Commission on Best Practices for Youth Suicide Prevention.
Safe Schools South Florida remains dedicated to enhancing the lives of LGBTQ+ youth through advocacy, education, and support. Our programs and services are designed to address the critical issues of HIV/AIDS prevention and comprehensive sex education, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to learn and thrive in a safe and supportive environment.
