Queer Hope Institute

queer hope institute with lgbtqia flag

Queer and trans youth across the country–even here in the Bay Area–continue to experience violence and discrimination, leading to elevated risk of depression, suicidality, and negative academic and health outcomes. Research shows that sustained, affirming programming can counteract these harms by fostering hope, joy, and purpose. However, many existing initiatives face challenges due to a lack of institutional partners, logistical support, or expertise and time needed to document their impact. The Queer Hope Institute meets this vital need for resources and capacity by providing evaluation and strategy expertise, serving as a community-university bridge, and designing and implementing new programming—ensuring that every queer and trans youth in the Bay Area can access spaces that uplift, empower, and sustain them.

91ÁÔÆæ Day of Giving 2025

Support QHI's First Annual Unity Conference

Lurie College is participating in San José State University's 1857 Minutes of Giving on March 11-12, and QHI is raising money to send queer and trans youth to the First Annual Unity Conference!

Our Vision

Drawing on our expertise in youth development, community-engaged programming, and research, 91ÁÔÆæ’s Queer Hope Institute (QHI) works to create a world that celebrates the inherent dignity of queer and trans youth, empowering them to imagine and pursue hopeful futures and live meaningful, fulfilling lives.

About QHI

Learn more about QHI's mission and vision

Key Initiatives

A selection of our recent community partnerships

Meet the Team

Say hello to the people who make QHI possible!

Our Purpose

QHI ensures that queer and trans youth have the bright, beautiful futures they deserve by documenting the impact of existing initiatives, enhancing collaborations among researchers, policymakers, practitioners, and community partners, and developing innovative solutions that foster queer- and trans-inclusive environments.