In the heart of North Bay, a small but mighty organization has been quietly transforming the lives of local youth.
OUTLoud North Bay is not just a community centre, it is a beacon of hope and empowerment for 2SLGBTQ+ youth and their allies.
"I started my transition at 43 years old," shared Seth Compton, Executive Director of OUTLoud. "I attended a candlelight vigil for Trans Day of Remembrance and while standing among others like me, as both transgender and a parent, it was powerful but heartbreaking to hear stories of people without a safe space."
"I went home that night and asked myself, 'What does a safe space look like? How can I create one for my community?' I took everything I loved as a kid and put it under one roof," said Compton. "There's a skate park, arts and crafts, music and video games."
"Everything we do is to show kids that they’re valued, loved, and safe—the feeling I always wanted as a kid. Spaces like this are crucial because sometimes, kids aren’t safe at home or school and they need to know there’s a place where they can just be," expressed Compton.
Since its founding, the organization has worked tirelessly to create a safe, inclusive space where young people can express themselves, find support and connect with others who share their experiences.
Founded with the mission of fostering understanding and acceptance, OUTLoud North Bay offers a variety of programs and services tailored to meet the unique needs of 2SLGBTQ+ youth.
"We focus on prevention and teaching kids about equitable and diverse inclusion through peer-to-peer support," shared Compton. "In Northern Ontario, where gaps in social services exist, kids can lean on each other while waiting for professional support."
The organization also takes a proactive approach to mental health, partnering with professionals to provide resources and support.
"Our programming reduces stigma around self-harm, harm reduction, body and sex positivity and Indigenous solidarity. In the middle of a mental health and opioid crisis, we teach life skills that kids often don’t learn in school," he stated.
From creative workshops and social events, the organization ensures that everyone who walks through their doors feels valued and heard.
"Kids need a place where they know they won’t be bullied, where they can get a meal, and meet their basic needs," shared Compton. "When that happens, they feel safer, healthier, and happier."
"Kids are struggling right now, no matter their identity, race, or culture," shared Compton. "When COVID hit, I realized every child needed a safe space, not just 2SLGBTQ+ youth."
"40% of the kids we serve are 2SLGBTQ+ youth, and 60% come from other organizations for mental health support," explained Compton. "Together, they build community and resilience."
As OUTLoud North Bay continues to grow, it relies on the generosity of volunteers and donors to keep its doors open.
Whether through monetary contributions, volunteering time or simply spreading the word, the community’s support is crucial.
For more information, visit outloudnorthbay.com.
OUTLoud North Bay is more than a support centre, it’s a lifeline for many and a key part of making North Bay a better, more inclusive place for all.
BayToday is proud to make a difference in our community by highlighting extraordinary individuals and organizations with this Cares feature, a foundational piece of our BayToday Cares program.
The BayToday Cares team's mission is to create meaningful change in North Bay and inspire others to do the same.
