LGBTQ Human Rights Organizations in Colorado Springs, CO

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.

Founded in 1994 by courageous parents determined to protect their gay and lesbian children, PFLAG Colorado Springs emerged during a pivotal moment in local history when extreme ideology threatened constitutional protections. These founding members organized in discreet locations, spoke out publicly, and worked tirelessly to change hearts and minds despite facing potential reprisals from employers, family, and community members. Today, PFLAG Colorado Springs continues their legacy of love-driven advocacy, building on a foundation of families united with LGBTQ+ people and allies who support one another. As part of PFLAG National—the first and largest organization serving LGBTQ+ people and their families since 1973—the Colorado Springs chapter strives to create an equitable, inclusive society where every LGBTQ+ person is safe, empowered, and loved. The organization's mission centers on creating a caring, just, and affirming world while educating communities to speak up as advocates until all hearts and minds respect, value, and affirm LGBTQ+ people. PFLAG Colorado Springs welcomes parents, family members, friends, and LGBTQ+ individuals seeking compassionate community and reliable guidance. Whether you're navigating coming out, facing challenges in your personal or professional life, or simply seeking acceptance and connection, you'll find heartfelt support from people who understand your journey. The organization remains committed to advocating for equality for all, with special attention to supporting transgender and gender-diverse communities and their families throughout Colorado Springs.