🌈 Fourth Fridays:
Where You Belong
A chill night for LGBTQIA+ teens & allies (Grades 9–12) Every Fourth Friday from October to June
Hey you. Yes, you. 😊
Looking for your people?
A place where you don't have to explain yourself or put on a show?
Where you can just... breathe?
You found it.
Every fourth Friday of the month from October to June, LGBTQIA+ youth and their allies in grades 9–12 come together in Peekskill for something simple but powerful:
Community that gets you.
A place where you don't have to explain yourself or put on a show?
Where you can just... breathe?
You found it.
Every fourth Friday of the month from October to June, LGBTQIA+ youth and their allies in grades 9–12 come together in Peekskill for something simple but powerful:
Community that gets you.
🫶 People who see you, whether you're out and proud or still figuring things out.
“One thing I like about Fourth Fridays is the way we have dinner together and talk about whatever we feel like. When I come here, I feel like people know me. This is a safe place to be.”
- Aiden (they, them) 16
- Aiden (they, them) 16
Show up as you are.
Bring a friend.
Find your people.
Bring a friend.
Find your people.
🗓️Mark Your Calendar
2025-2026 School Year Dates:
2025-2026 School Year Dates:
October 24, November 28, December 26, January 23,
February 27, March 27, April 24, May 22, June 26
Note: Transportation reimbursement is available—don't let the lack of a ride stop you. Reach out to us for an easy fix! Message us on Insta or FB or email us
February 27, March 27, April 24, May 22, June 26
Note: Transportation reimbursement is available—don't let the lack of a ride stop you. Reach out to us for an easy fix! Message us on Insta or FB or email us
Ready to join us?
🌈 Attend Fourth Fridays
You belong here.
Whether you're out, questioning, or supporting a friend, if you're in grades 9-12, this space is for you.
What you need to know:
-It's completely free
-You don't need to be "out" to anyone
-Allies are welcome
-Need accommodations or space to recharge? We've got you covered
-Transportation reimbursement available
-We keep it small and cozy on purpose
"One thing I like about Fourth Fridays is seeing queer adults. It makes me happy to see people like me that made it."
- Shane 14 (He/Him)
Whether you're out, questioning, or supporting a friend, if you're in grades 9-12, this space is for you.
What you need to know:
-It's completely free
-You don't need to be "out" to anyone
-Allies are welcome
-Need accommodations or space to recharge? We've got you covered
-Transportation reimbursement available
-We keep it small and cozy on purpose
"One thing I like about Fourth Fridays is seeing queer adults. It makes me happy to see people like me that made it."
- Shane 14 (He/Him)
The Humans Behind the Magic✨
We're not just another youth program. We're a chosen family of volunteers who show up with one simple belief:
Every LGBTQIA+ person deserves to feel seen, heard, and celebrated for exactly who they are.
Every LGBTQIA+ person deserves to feel seen, heard, and celebrated for exactly who they are.
"I volunteer here because I want to be a force for good, especially now, for queer kids. I'm so glad I got involved with Fourth Fridays. I'm amazed by everyone's commitment to doing this right. I love meeting other people who share my values."
-Bronwen, Volunteer
Our Story📚
Fourth Fridays began in 2024 when our community saw a need and decided to fill it. What started as a grant-funded initiative through the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of the Hudson Valley quickly grew into something bigger. A collaboration with Peekskill Pride, The Loft, Center Lane, and other LGBTQIA+-affirming organizations that brought together some of the most compassionate people you'll ever meet.
Who shows up for you? 😊
Our volunteer team includes people from all walks of life. A city councilperson, an artist, a librarian, a gardener, a comic book artist, a lighting designer, a musical performer, a sexuality educator, a writer, a bookstore owner, as well as several teachers.
What do we all share?
We're trained, background-checked, and here because we care.
What do we all share?
We're trained, background-checked, and here because we care.
Many of our volunteers are certified in Youth Mental Health First Aid training.
All of us lead with empathy, respect boundaries, and show up authentically.
All of us lead with empathy, respect boundaries, and show up authentically.
Our Values In Action
"One thing I like about Fourth Fridays is the open-mindedness of everyone who attends, including the adults. When I come here I feel affirmed."
-Payton (he/they) 15
A Night Worth Showing Up For✨
Nervous about what actually happens at Fourth Fridays?
We get it. Here's the real deal:
We get it. Here's the real deal:
🔍What you'll get here
🍽 A Free Warm Meal
(and yes it's good)
🎲 Fun activities
like games, art, and real conversations
💬 No-pressure connection
in a space built for you
When You Walk In: 🍎
The first thing you'll notice is the smell of something delicious. Every night starts with a free, warm meal. Whether it's pasta, chicken, or veggie options, there's always a plate waiting for you. No need to bring anything but yourself.
What Happens Next? 🎨
After we eat, we mix it up with icebreakers and activities that are actually fun. Think games, creative projects, or group discussions where you can share your thoughts (or just listen if that's more your style). We keep things chill and low-pressure. Sometimes we have guest speakers present on topics you've actually asked for. Sometimes we just hang out and talk about whatever's on our minds.
Our Ground Rules (That We Stick To) 📜
We have a living group agreement that sets guidelines for how we'll be with each other.
Things like using gender-inclusive language, respecting boundaries, and not touching without consent. We wrote it together at our first meeting and revisit it monthly to make sure everyone stays comfortable.
Need to take care of yourself?
Step away anytime, bring headphones, take breaks. Whatever helps you feel good in the space. We're here to support you, not overwhelm you.
Things like using gender-inclusive language, respecting boundaries, and not touching without consent. We wrote it together at our first meeting and revisit it monthly to make sure everyone stays comfortable.
Need to take care of yourself?
Step away anytime, bring headphones, take breaks. Whatever helps you feel good in the space. We're here to support you, not overwhelm you.
The Real Magic ✨
There's always time for real connection. Whether you're chatting with volunteers or meeting other teens from different schools across Westchester (and beyond), this is your space to be seen and heard, to laugh or vent, or just exist without explanation.
"One thing I like about Fourth Fridays is how we all have a voice. When I come here, I feel safe, and have a community." -Kane (she/her) 16
-Kane (she/her) 16
Find Your Way In🚪
Whether you're a teen looking for community or an adult who wants to support LGBTQIA+ youth, there's a place for you here.
🤝 Volunteer With Us
Ready to show up for LGBTQIA+ youth in northern Westchester? We're looking for compassionate adults who want to create a safe, affirming space.
What we're looking for:
-Adults who genuinely care about youth wellbeing
-Commitment to respect, boundaries, and inclusivity
-Willingness to complete a background check and training
-People who can show up consistently
"A program like this might have helped me to be myself so much sooner than I did. I volunteer here to make my community safer for LGBTQIA+ youth and because this represents hope for a future in which all youth know they are valued."
— Michael (They/Them)
What we're looking for:
-Adults who genuinely care about youth wellbeing
-Commitment to respect, boundaries, and inclusivity
-Willingness to complete a background check and training
-People who can show up consistently
"A program like this might have helped me to be myself so much sooner than I did. I volunteer here to make my community safer for LGBTQIA+ youth and because this represents hope for a future in which all youth know they are valued."
— Michael (They/Them)
🎤 Share Your Story (Guest Speakers)
Have expertise, experience, or a story that might resonate with LGBTQIA+ teens? We invite guest speakers to present on topics our youth request.
💝 Support Our Mission (Sponsors)
Help us keep Fourth Fridays free and accessible. Sponsorship helps cover meals, activities, transportation assistance, and supplies.
Resources
You're Not Alone—And Neither Are the People Who Love You
For LGBTQIA+ Youth: The Trevor Project
24/7 crisis support, resources, and community for LGBTQIA+ young people.
Learn MoreFor Parents & Caregivers: PFLAG
Support, education, and advocacy for families and allies of LGBTQIA+ people.
Learn MoreLocal Support: The Loft LGBTQ Community Center
Serving LGBTQ+ individuals and families in Westchester County with programs, support groups, and resources.
Learn MoreCenter Lane (Westchester Jewish Family Services)
Comprehensive programming and support for LGBTQIA+ youth and families.
Learn MoreTransPLUS Resource Center
Learn More
PrideWorks for Youth - Annual Westchester Conference for LGBTQIA+ Youth and their Allies
Learn More💛 Make a Donation
Every dollar helps us create a safe space for LGBTQIA+ youth who need it most.
📧 Stay Connected
Get updates on events, resources, and ways to support our community.
Ready to connect? 👏
Whether you're a teen looking for community or an adult who wants to support LGBTQIA+ youth, there's a place for you here.
If you're in crisis, please reach out:
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
Trevor Lifeline: 1-866-488-7386
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
Trevor Lifeline: 1-866-488-7386
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
Come as you are.
Kick back, eat well, be real.
This is your space.
Kick back, eat well, be real.
This is your space.
Media Coverage
New York Public Radio / Brian Lehrer Show
2025 Lehrer Prize for Community Well Being: Supporting Trans Kids
Read More
Shine On! Podcast
Love Your Neighbor, featuring Fourth Fridays
Read More
Peekskill Herald
Local LGBTQ+ Teen Group Receives Lehrer Award for Community Well-Being
Read More
Peekskill Herald
City Honors Seven LGBTQ+ Members for Pride Month
Read More
Peekskill Herald
Youth Gathering and Queer Art Featured in Pride Weekend
Read More
