About Us
Rainbow Project Sioux Falls was founded in June 2023 with a simple yet powerful mission: to create safe, inclusive, and affirming spaces for LGBTQ2S youth, teens, and young adults. What began as a Girl Scout Gold Award project has grown into a nonprofit dedicated to fostering belonging, empowerment, and support for young people in our community.
The organization was created by a passionate Girl Scout Ambassador who recognized the need for LGBTQ2S youth to have safe spaces where they can express themselves, connect with peers, and find acceptance. As part of her Gold Award project—the highest achievement in Girl Scouts—she launched a series of events designed to provide support, education, and community-building opportunities. Her dedication to this cause led to the founding of Rainbow Project Sioux Falls, ensuring that these vital resources would continue long after her project was completed. She successfully earned her Gold Award, a testament to her leadership, commitment, and vision for a more inclusive community.
Today, Rainbow Project Sioux Falls offers a variety of programs, including creative workshops, peer support groups, and community events that empower LGBTQ2S youth to embrace their authentic selves. Our goal is to create a lasting impact by fostering confidence, resilience, and leadership among young people while advocating for a more inclusive society.
As we continue to grow, we are committed to expanding our reach and working alongside community partners to provide meaningful, affirming experiences for LGBTQ2S youth. What started as one young leader’s vision has become a movement to create a safer, more welcoming future for the next generation.
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Mission Statement
Rainbow Project Sioux Falls creates safe, inclusive, and affirming spaces for LGBTQ2S youth, teens, and young adults. Through community events, support networks, and advocacy, we foster belonging, empowerment, and well-being, ensuring every young person has a place where they are celebrated and valued for who they are.
Vision Statement
Rainbow Project Sioux Falls envisions a future where every LGBTQ2S youth, teen, and young adult in our community feels safe, valued, and empowered to be their authentic selves. Through inclusive events, meaningful connections, and unwavering support, we strive to create a world where acceptance is the norm, diversity is celebrated, and all young people have a place to belong.
Core Values
1. Inclusivity – We welcome and affirm all LGBTQ2S youth, teens, and young adults, creating spaces where everyone feels safe, seen, and valued.
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2. Empowerment – We uplift LGBTQ2S youth by providing opportunities for leadership, self-expression, and personal growth.
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3. Community – We foster meaningful connections and a sense of belonging through shared experiences and mutual support.
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4. Respect – We honor each person’s identity, experiences, and journey, ensuring that all voices are heard and valued.
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5. Safety – We prioritize the physical, emotional, and mental well-being of every participant by maintaining secure, judgment-free spaces.
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6. Advocacy – We stand for equality, visibility, and the rights of LGBTQ2S youth by working toward a more inclusive and affirming society.
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7. Joy & Celebration – We recognize and celebrate LGBTQ2S identities, culture, and resilience through affirming and uplifting experiences.