Programs are a great way to meet like-minded people while doing fun things! Each program has their own activities based on participants' needs. From cooking classes to group therapy, we work hard towards a healthy and happy community - together. Read below for all of the current programs that Rainbow Cafe LGBTQ Center offers.
Youth Programs
Rainbow Cafe was founded as a youth organization to support the LGBTQIA+ young people of Southern Illinois. Here are our current program offerings available to LGBTQIA+ youth and their friends ages 25 and under.
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ARC
For all LGBTQIA+ youth and friends ages 9 to 13. Every second and fourth Saturday from 2 to 4:30 PM. Supervised social drop-in, lunch, games, television, and computer lab access. |
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DROP-IN
For all LGBTQIA+ youth and friends ages 13 to 18.* Every Friday from 6 to 9 PM. Social drop-in addition to dinner and coordinated workshops over queer history, sex education, allyship, and more. "I come for the community and support from staff and volunteers. There's lots of likeminded people to hang out with." - A Real Drop-In Youth |
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ELEVATE
For all LGBTQIA+ youth and friends ages 18 to 25. Every second and fourth Saturday from 6 to 9 PM. Social drop-in plus dinner and workshops over college and work prep, allyship, queer history, and life. "I come to this place to laugh, to cry. Because we all need that - and Rainbow Cafe is my community." - A Real elevate Youth |
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RC ON THE GO
For all high school age LGBTQIA+ youth and friends in select outreach locations. Once a month every first Wednesday at 5 PM with The Stress and Trauma Treatment Center in Benton. Currently on hiatus. "Rainbow Cafe gives me a space to be myself - even when I live in places where I otherwise can't." - A Real RC On the Go Youth |
Are you a youth wanting to go to some of our events? Rainbow Cafe youth programs offer transportation to select trips and events for all above programs - like St. Louis PrideFest, Rainbow Family Day, Queer Beach Takeover, and other rotating events. Find out more here.
*18-year-olds are given a layover period to attend both Drop-In and elevate, similar to the layover given to 13-year-olds between ARC and Drop-In. To incentivize use of the layover period, 18-year-olds must be attending elevate in order to attend Drop-In.
*18-year-olds are given a layover period to attend both Drop-In and elevate, similar to the layover given to 13-year-olds between ARC and Drop-In. To incentivize use of the layover period, 18-year-olds must be attending elevate in order to attend Drop-In.
Adult Programs
Rainbow Cafe isn't just for young people - we're a diverse community with a large variety of events and programs for all ages!
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ADULTING WHILE QUEER
For all LGBTQIA+ adults ages 25 to 50. Events are on a case-by-case basis, check their Facebook for upcoming plans and events. "AWQ gives me low-key, low-pressure ways to interact in a fun environment with other folks my age in the queer community, that isn't necessarily always in bar environments. Sometimes it's just nice to hang out with other folks and feel accepted, without having to hide or prove myself." - A Real Adulting While Queer Member TRANS-FORMATION
For transgender and gender-nonconforming adults ages 18 and older. Every Thursday from 5 to 7 PM. Games, chatting, and support in a welcoming environment. |
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UNCONDITIONAL
For parents and families of LGBTQIA+ youth, adults, and any/all LGBTQIA+ families. Friendly chatting, warm support, and plenty of resources to learn from all in one accessible location. "A group for me to get help about the people that mean the most to me- my children." - A Real Unconditional Member |
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POLY
For polyamorous individuals ages 18 and older. Every first Tuesday from 5 to 6 PM. Open support and resources to both experienced and questioning folks. |