Mazzoni Center's Ally Safe Schools Program works with staff and young people within Philadelphia schools and out-of-school time programs to help create safer, more welcoming, and more inclusive climates for LGBTQ youth.

Professional Development

Our professional development for staff of Philadelphia-area schools and out-of-school time programs focuses on issues that have an impact on LGBTQ youth and families. 

We work with staff on building a deeper awareness of concepts related to sexual orientation and gender identity, identifying some of the primary challenges that LGBTQ youth might face in their schools and communities, and on developing strategies to combat homophobia and transphobia in their schools and programs.

All of our trainings are provided free of charge for Philadelphia schools and out-of-school time programs.

To schedule a training, or to learn more, contact us. 

GSAs

The Ally Safe Schools Program coordinates the Philadelphia-area network of Gay-Straight Alliances, offering resources, technical assistance, and programmatic support. 

Do you have a high school or middle school GSA in the greater Philadelphia area?    Register with us and become a part of our network!  Registered GSAs will receive: 5 Safe Schools posters, 25 Ally bookmarks and postcards, 10 Safe Zone doorhangers for classrooms and offices, 25 Ally buttons and stickers, and will have access to our small but growing collection of DVDs!

Looking to start a GSA at your school and aren't sure where to begin?  Want the scoop on how to get a GSA started in your school, and keep it running throughout the year and beyond?   Download a copy of our 2010-2011 GSA handbook and get in touch with us!  We'd love to help you out! 

Student Leadership Board

Resources for Educators

Download a copy of our middle school lesson plans

Download a copy of our high school lesson plans

Stay in Touch!

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Contact Information

Louie A. Ortiz, MHS

Education Manager
215-563-0652 ext. 251
lortiz@mazzonicenter.org