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Parenting a queer kid comes with so many questions. How do we support them? How do we help them find their community? And how do we make sure they know that no matter what, they are loved and they belong? Since 2010, the It Gets Better campaign has been a beacon of hope for LGBTQ+ youth, reminding them that they are not alone and that a brighter future is possible. What started as a viral video campaign has grown into a global movement, funding life-changing projects and empowering young people to create change in their own communities. This week In the Den, Sara visits with Brian Wenke, the Executive Director of It Gets Better, about empowerment, advocacy, and making sure the next generation of LGBTQ+ youth know they are seen, valued, and powerful.

Special Guest: Brian Wenke

Brian Wenke is the Executive Director of It Gets Better, the world’s largest storytelling effort for LGBTQ+ youth and a leading LGBTQ+ youth empowerment organization. Since 2016, he has led the global effort to uplift and inspire LGBTQ+ young people through storytelling, education, and community-building. Under his leadership, It Gets Better has expanded its reach across four continents and six major languages, leveraging corporate and institutional partnerships to connect with LGBTQ+ youth where they live, learn, and socialize.

Prior to It Gets Better, Brian raised over $25 million to address healthcare disparities (American Cancer Society), global conservation efforts (Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association), and affordable housing and access to the arts (Art Share LA). Brian is a proud alumnus of the University of Cincinnati, College-Conservatory of Music (BFA) and Brandman University (MBA). He currently resides in Los Angeles, California.

Links from the Show:

• It Gets Better on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@itgetsbetter
• It Gets Better on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/itgetsbetterproject 
• It Gets Better on IG: https://www.instagram.com/itgetsbetter/ 
• It Gets Better on FB: https://www.facebook.com/itgetsbetterproject/ 
• Apply to the It Gets Better Grant Program here: https://www.itgetsbetterchangemakers.org/ 
• Join Mama Dragons here: www.mamadragons.org 

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