Stonewall Youth

Stonewall Youth is a by-and-for queer youth organization based out of Olympia, Washington, that has been operating since 1991. While the organization primarily focuses on public relations and communications services, its core mission is to support and empower LGBTQ+ youth through community building, advocacy, and education. As a youth-led, adult-supported organization, Stonewall Youth provides a unique blend of communications work that centers the voices and experiences of queer young people in the Pacific Northwest.

Public Relations and Communications Services

Stonewall Youth specializes in public relations and communications services that are deeply rooted in social justice and youth empowerment. Their work often involves crafting messaging that amplifies queer youth perspectives, managing community outreach campaigns, and developing educational materials that promote inclusivity. Given their focus on LGBTQ+ youth, their communications efforts typically include:

• Youth-centered public relations campaigns
• Community outreach and engagement strategies
• Social media management and content creation
• Press releases and media relations for youth advocacy
• Educational resource development and distribution
• Event promotion and communications for youth programs
• Brand messaging that reflects queer youth identities
• Crisis communications related to youth safety and inclusion
• Partnership development with local schools and nonprofits
• Storytelling and narrative change work for LGBTQ+ visibility

Methodology and Approach

Stonewall Youth operates with a by-and-for model, meaning that queer youth are at the center of all decision-making and communications efforts. The organization emphasizes a collaborative, peer-led approach where young people develop their own PR strategies, write their own press materials, and lead community discussions. This methodology ensures that communications are authentic, relevant, and directly responsive to the needs of the queer youth community. Stonewall Youth also integrates trauma-informed practices and intersectional frameworks into their work, recognizing that effective public relations must address the diverse experiences of youth of color, transgender youth, and those from rural areas. Their approach is grounded in grassroots organizing and mutual aid, making their communications style accessible and community-first rather than corporate or top-down.

Location and Community Impact

Based in Olympia, Washington, in the United States, Stonewall Youth serves queer youth across Thurston County and the broader Pacific Northwest region. The organization's headquarters at 112 State Ave NE places it in the heart of Olympia's downtown, allowing for easy access to local schools, community centers, and government offices. Olympia's progressive political climate and strong LGBTQ+ community provide a supportive environment for Stonewall Youth's work, though the organization also reaches youth in more conservative rural areas nearby. By maintaining a physical presence in the state capital, Stonewall Youth can engage with policymakers and advocate for youth-friendly legislation while simultaneously running local PR campaigns that highlight the needs of queer young people in Washington State.

Stonewall Youth is best suited for young people aged 13-22 who identify as LGBTQ+ and are seeking a supportive community where they can develop leadership skills, participate in public communications projects, and advocate for their own needs. The organization is also a good fit for allies, educators, and local nonprofits looking to partner with a youth-led PR entity that prioritizes authenticity and social change. Whether through media training, event planning, or community storytelling, Stonewall Youth offers a rare opportunity for queer youth to shape their own narratives in a safe and affirming environment.