Inside Out Youth Services

Founded in 1990 by Regina Dipadova during Colorado Springs' most challenging era for LGBTQ acceptance, Inside Out Youth Services has grown into a vital 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to building access, equity, and power with LGBTQIA2+ young people throughout the Pikes Peak region. The organization's mission centers on creating wholeness—inside and out—through leadership development, advocacy, community-building, education, and peer support. Operating from its Colorado Springs, CO location, Inside Out serves as a safe, affirming space where LGBTQIA2+ youth and their allies can connect, grow, and develop the resilience needed to thrive. The organization's core values of intersectionality, nourishment, self-expression, integrity, engagement, openness, and transformation guide all work with young people. Inside Out recognizes that LGBTQIA2+ youth in the Colorado Springs area face elevated risks for substance abuse, school dropout, physical and sexual abuse, homelessness, and suicide—challenges the organization actively works to address through comprehensive support. In 2023-2024, Inside Out served hundreds of young people through thousands of program visits, provided individual therapy sessions, and reached nearly 25,000 young people through violence prevention and policy advocacy efforts. The organization has earned recognition including Prism Awards, Mental Health and Wellness honors, and community proclamations for its commitment to youth empowerment. Inside Out continues expanding its vision of a Colorado Springs community where all LGBTQIA2+ young people feel safe, welcomed, and empowered to live authentically.