COLORS LGBTQ Youth Counseling Center in Los Angeles provides free and unlimited mental health services to LGBTQ-identified youth under the age of 25, their families and their partners. Operating out of Antioch University’s Los Angeles campus since 2012, the center has provided counseling for over 5,000 youth.
“Because of the high need for counseling in our communities, COLORS always has a waiting list,” says Cynthia Ruffin, Director of the program. “All funds raised help us expand our services throughout LA by partnering with other agencies that either does not offer mental health services to LGBTQ-identified youth or have limited resources in underserved areas of LA County.”
COLORS has had a milestone year. A few weeks ago, it celebrated a partnership with L.A. Care and was recently honored to confirm actor Charlie Carver as a host for its annual fall fundraiser—the COLORS Autumn Soirée. Carver is best known for his roles on Desperate Housewives, Teen Wolf, The Leftovers, and the LGBT history mini-series When We Rise. Praised for coming out on Instagram and for using his platform to advocate for LGBTQ rights, the actor is also slated to be recognized by the Human Rights Campaign.
“We are excited that Charlie will be lending us his talents at this year’s Autumn Soirée,” says volunteer advisory board chair, Dr. Enrique López, psychologist. “So much of what we do is about making COLORS visible in the community and for young people to know how to find us when they need us. Charlie’s action will help us in this community effort.”
LGBT Specialization and COLORS Founder Dr. Douglas Sadownick adds, “I am so proud of the work the counselors and staff continuously do to help LGBTQ youth find healing to reach their potential. We strive to create a healthier community, one person at a time.”
This year’s COLORS Autumn Soirée will take place on Thursday, November 14th from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM at the Kimpton La Peer Rooftop in West Hollywood. The event will feature an outdoor reception, international DJ Sasha B and a silent auction. Tickets are currently on sale here for $65 per person with all proceeds benefiting COLORS.
