Common Bond New Mexico Foundation/

Under twentyone (U-21)

Since 1986, Common Bond's U21 Project has provided one of the only places for Albuquerque's LGBT youth to socialize in a safe, welcoming, and affirming environment. We serve Albuquerque youth under the age of 21. Every Friday night, youth and adult facilitators come together in a setting free of bullying or judgement. We provide an environment where every youth can express their true self without fear of being teased, mistreated, or physically harmed.

In a world where LGBT rights are still being debated – teen suicide rates due to mistreatment are high, and members of the LGBT community are still victims of prejudice and abuse – organizations such as U21 are critical to the health and well being of our city's youth.

Participants in U21 reflect a wide spectrum of race, religion, and socio-economic backgrounds. Some children are brought to the group by encouraging and accepting parents, some are referred by counselors or teachers at schools, others find us online or through friends in the community. We have both regular and occasional attendees.

We engage our diverse group in equally diverse activities including discussions, games, crafting, skill learning and physical ventures. We frequently invite guest speakers from outside organizations. Planned Parenthood speaks about safe-sex practices and healthy relationships at least twice a year.

U21 is facilitated by a handful of volunteers that have undergone background checks and agreed to abide by strict confidentiality and no-fraternization policies.  Facilitators receive training and guidelines for dealing with youth in difficult situations. Over the years U21 has been asked to help youth in a range of issues including food insecure situations, finding safe housing, and in the general struggles of being an LGBT teenager. Facilitators have reach-back capability to several licensed counselors and contacts at the Children Youth and Families Department, should the need arise to refer a matter to a trained social worker.