A Ministry of the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Cleveland
The Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Cleveland (UUCC) is launching a pilot ministry called the Community of Rainbow Affirming Youth (RAY). This ministry builds on the well-received third-Friday gatherings for LGBTQ+ teens and youth allies that began in 2025 through the former Youth Academy. The pilot will run from January through April.
RAY will offer facilitated social gatherings for LGBTQ+ youth and youth allies, ages 12–18. These gatherings are designed to create a safe, affirming, and engaging environment where young people can connect with peers, build social skills, and strengthen their sense of belonging and self-acceptance.
The Community of Rainbow Affirming Youth is a collaborative effort led by UUCC members, with a team providing co-facilitation, communications, administration, and logistics. Educator Valerie Hura of Endeavor Personal Growth, LLC works with this ministry through content development and facilitation as well as her community relationships developed while Youth Academy Coordinator. The first gathering will take place on Friday, January 16, and we invite you to help us spread the word by sharing the details below with families who may be interested.
Community of Rainbow Affirming Youth Event: LGBTQ+ Youth Allyship
Join the Community of Rainbow Affirming Youth at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Cleveland on Friday, January 16, for an evening exploring LGBTQ+ allyship through art and drama.
Teens who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community or as allies will have the opportunity to define, explore, and express what allyship means to them. The evening will conclude with a Choose Your Own Adventure after-party, featuring games, crafts, art activities, and plenty of space to relax and connect.
Event Details:
Topic: The Art of Allyship
When: Friday, January 16, 2026, 6:30–10:00 PM
Who: LGBTQ+ Youth & Youth Allies (ages 12–18)
Where: 21600 Shaker Blvd, Shaker Heights, Ohio
How: Register your teen by emailing Valerie Hura at valerie.hura@uucleveland.org
We hope you’ll help us share this opportunity and support LGBTQ+ youth in our wider community as we continue building spaces of affirmation, creativity, and belonging.
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