Pride Center Of Edmonton
If you want to get involved with volunteering, need resources or are looking for a safe place, the Pride Centre of Edmonton is a great place to be. With varied events and programs that include counselling, roundtables, book clubs and welcoming newcomers events this centre is dedicated to being a safe and open space.
The Rainbow Pages
This LGBTQ+ website acts as a direct resource for youth. With information regarding transgender support, upcoming events, non-discriminatory churches and more. It is an excellent source to find LGBTQ+ information.
Edmonton Gaycities
This website is designed to guide adults to LGBTQ+ safe bars, restaurants, shops and more. A great resource for visitors and locals alike.
Team Edmonton
Team Edmonton is a great resource for activities throughout the year. With a strong belief that every one should be able to take part in sports, games and artistic pursuits it strives to maintain a safe environment where everyone can have fun.
YESS
YESS is the Youth Empowerment and Support Services in Edmonton. They provide short term emergency shelter and security for youth as well as daytime programs that include medical care, counselling and organizing for long term care. They also help with legal advocacy and human services. They are always in need of adult volunteers who are non-discriminatory.
Youth Line
This website allows content via calls, text and online chat with peer support for LGBTQ+ youth. Though this resource is based out of Toronto, it is available to all. They are not counsellors, but they are trained to help with questioning gender identity and/or sexual orientation, coming out, mental health, relationships, social isolation and more.
Edmonton is not yet an entirely accepting or tolerant city, but more safe spaces exist each year. If you are looking for more groups or social activities that are inclusive, check the Facebook groups for the region and you will find a lot of people who want the same. No one wants to feel left out or be marginalized, which is why more and more resources and locations are loudly promoting themselves as safe spaces. I hope this list was helpful and if I can find more resources I will update this post.
Eva Blakeman 