Kent, Washington, is home to a vibrant and growing LGBTQ+ community supported by a network of local organizations, events, and resources. Whether you're a resident, newcomer, or ally, this guide highlights the essential services and community spaces that make Kent a welcoming place for LGBTQ+ individuals and families.
Community Support & Youth Programs
OKAY! – Kent Youth & Family Services
OKAY! is a weekly drop-in support group for LGBTQ+ teens and allies aged 13–19. Held every Wednesday from 5:00–6:30 PM at 232 Second Ave S, Suite 201, Kent, WA 98032, the group offers a safe space to build friendships and community. For more information, contact okay@kyfs.org or call 253-859-0300. valleymed.org+2Kent Youth & Family Services+2kentwa.gov+2
Lambert House
Lambert House provides both online and in-person LGBTQ+ youth programs across King County, including Kent. Their services include peer support groups, outdoor events, and leadership development opportunities. These programs are particularly beneficial for youth in rural or less-affirming environments. Lambert House+1Lambert House+1
Local LGBTQ+ Events & Pride Celebrations
Kent PRIDE
Kent PRIDE is a community group organizing events and meetups for LGBTQ+ parents and allies. Regular gatherings are held at Wayside United Church of Christ. Stay updated on their activities through their Facebook page. Facebook
Nearby Pride Events
While Kent's Pride events are growing, nearby cities offer additional celebrations:
- Renton Pride: Hosting events like the LGBTQIA+ Town Center at the Renton Library. renton.lgbt+1GLSEN Washington+1
- Seattle Pride: One of the largest Pride festivals in the Pacific Northwest, featuring parades, performances, and community gatherings. Wikipedia
For a comprehensive list of upcoming LGBTQ+ events in Kent and surrounding areas, visit AllEvents.in. AllEvents+1AllEvents+1
Legal, Health & Advocacy Resources
QLaw Foundation
QLaw Foundation offers legal clinics and resources tailored to the LGBTQ2S+ community, including transgender legal services and advocacy programs. Washington State LGBTQ Commission
Ingersoll Gender Center
Located in Seattle, Ingersoll Gender Center provides support groups, healthcare navigation, and advocacy for transgender and gender-diverse individuals. valleymed.org+1GLSEN Washington+1
Peer Seattle
Peer Seattle offers peer-led support services focusing on mental health, addiction recovery, and HIV support within the LGBTQ+ community. Peer Seattle
Housing & Community Services
Watson Manor – Kent Youth & Family Services
Watson Manor provides transitional housing for teen parents, including LGBTQ+ youth, offering a supportive environment to achieve independence. kentwa.gov
Pride Place (Seattle)
Pride Place is Washington's first LGBTQIA+ senior housing community, located in Seattle's Capitol Hill. It offers affordable housing and community services for LGBTQ+ seniors. Them+4Wikipedia+4seattleymca.org+4
Education & Youth Empowerment
Diverse Harmony
Based in Seattle, Diverse Harmony is the nation's first LGBTQ+ youth choir, creating a safe and affirming environment for young people to express themselves through music. Wikipedia
Beloved Arise
Beloved Arise is a national nonprofit based in Seattle that empowers LGBTQ+ youth of faith through resources, programs, and community-building initiatives. Wikipedia
Statewide & Regional Resources
- Washington State LGBTQ Commission: Offers a comprehensive directory of LGBTQ+ resources across King County and the state, including legal aid, healthcare, and advocacy organizations.
- Pride Foundation: Provides scholarships, grants, and sponsorships to support LGBTQ+ individuals and organizations throughout Washington. Washington State LGBTQ Commission
Transgender & Gender-Diverse Support
Ingersoll Gender Center
Ingersoll Gender Center offers support groups, healthcare navigation, and advocacy for transgender and gender-diverse individuals. valleymed.org+1GLSEN Washington+1
Gender Justice League
Gender Justice League is a civil rights nonprofit that works on advocacy and direct services in Seattle, including organizing Trans Pride Seattle and providing transitional housing for those who have experienced gender-based violence. Them
Kent, WA, is steadily cultivating a supportive environment for its LGBTQ+ residents through dedicated organizations, events, and resources. Whether you're seeking community, support, or ways to get involved, Kent offers a variety of opportunities to connect and thrive.
For more information or to get involved with local LGBTQ+ initiatives, consider reaching out to the organizations listed above or attending upcoming events in the area.
