Founder and Executive Director
Diana’s PLACE
FOCUS
Although LGBTQ youth represent just 10 percent of the general population, it is estimated that they make up 20 to 40 percent of all youth experiencing homelessness. Unaccompanied LGBTQ youth have a higher likelihood of engaging in commercial or survival sex work, and face disproportionate levels of risk for victimization, HIV/STI, substance use, mental illness, and suicidality. LJ Woolston has served this population in South Florida for over five years, and asserts that the crisis of LGBTQ youth homelessness can only be addressed through genuine widespread community collaboration, education, and innovative, youth-facing programming. In addition, he believes that it is essential for providers, policymakers, and stakeholders alike to intentionally include the voices of young people, especially queer and trans youth of color, in all aspects of their work. LJ is working to create a non-profit dedicated to meeting the unique needs of this population through meaningful partnerships, creative employment opportunities, and non-traditional housing options.
MORE ABOUT LJ
LJ is a queer and trans social worker, advocate, artist, and Point Foundation Alumni. He was born and raised in South Florida, where he has spent over half of a decade working specifically with LGBTQ youth experiencing homelessness. LJ has not only increased the resources available for this population, but has also created broader community awareness of the complex challenges and inequities faced by these young people.