The Trevor Project Review

I use The Trevor Project as a valuable resource to support LGBTQ youth, especially when urgent help is needed. The Trevor Project is known as one of the largest organizations providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning young people under 25. Started in 1998, the nonprofit has become a safe and trusted place for youth to reach out anytime they’re feeling hopeless, overwhelmed, or unsafe.

I’ve found that The Trevor Project stands out for its dedication and 24/7 support, earning high ratings from users and being recognized by the mental health community. Besides direct crisis services, it also provides educational resources, peer connections, and advocacy to create safer, more inclusive communities. Here’s a look at how I rate The Trevor Project, along with the details that show its real-world impact.

Organization Name: The Trevor Project
Website URL: thetrevorproject.org
Type: Nonprofit
Founded: 1998
Services: Crisis intervention, suicide prevention, chat/text/phone support, resources, education
Audience: LGBTQ youth under 25
Average Charity Navigator Rating: 96/100
24/7 Support: Yes
Cost: Free (services are confidential and available without charge)
Peer Support Community: Yes
Outreach Materials: Yes
Advocacy Work: Yes

Crisis Support Access: Yes; Call, text, and online chat
Privacy Protection: Yes

The Trevor Project’s allinone approach goes beyond basic hotlines, offering easy to access help across phone, chat, and text services. Whether someone is seeking urgent crisis help or just needs someone to talk to, the support is quick and nonjudgmental. Each service is free, confidential, and designed specifically for young LGBTQ people, who too often feel alone or misunderstood in traditional care settings.

Each time I’ve referred someone to The Trevor Project or partnered with its staff for community events, I’ve been impressed by the level of care and professionalism. The organization’s training materials also help adults like me understand the best ways to support LGBTQ youth.

Background and Mission of The Trevor Project

The Trevor Project has a unique history, rooted in media and public awareness. It all started with “Trevor,” an Academy Award–winning short film from 1994 about a 13yearold boy coming to terms with his sexuality. When the film was set to air on national television, the creators wanted to make sure viewers had a place to turn if they saw themselves in Trevor’s story. They realized no such resource existed at the time, so they launched the first national crisis intervention and suicide prevention service specifically for LGBTQ young people.

Since then, The Trevor Project has grown to serve hundreds of thousands of young people every year. Its core mission is to end suicide among LGBTQ youth, but the organization also works hard to create safe spaces, educate allies, and shape public policies that protect vulnerable youth.

In my experience, The Trevor Project has helped break down the silence surrounding mental health struggles among LGBTQ youth. It offers hope and connection where there was once only stigma and isolation. This visibility and support can sometimes be life-saving.

Direct Crisis Services Overview

The Trevor Project’s core crisis services include The Trevor Lifeline (phone), TrevorChat (online chat), and TrevorText (SMS texting). Each is staffed by trained counselors who are specially equipped to talk with LGBTQ youth in distress. These counselors receive ongoing training in LGBTQ cultural competency, suicide intervention, and traumainformed support. I have found that youth often feel safer reaching out to a service designed just for them, rather than a general helpline.

Here’s a breakdown of each core service:

• The Trevor Lifeline: 18664887386, available 24/7 for voice calls. Young people can talk directly and privately with a counselor about anything they’re facing.
• TrevorChat: Secure chat service available through the website. Many young people prefer typing out their thoughts rather than speaking out loud, especially if they feel worried about privacy at home.
• TrevorText: Text “START” to 678678, also available 24/7. Texting support helps those who may not have access to a private place to make a call.

All three methods give youth control over how they interact and set the pace of the conversation. For many young people, just knowing these services exist helps reduce feelings of isolation or despair. I’ve watched as students I work with keep the Trevor number saved in their phones, giving them a sense of security even if they never call.

Support for a Wide Range of Challenges

Whether someone is worried about coming out, dealing with bullying, struggling with depression or selfharm, or just needs a nonjudgmental ear, Trevor counselors approach every conversation with care and respect. All support is confidential, which is really important for youth in unsupportive or unsafe environments.

The counselors do not give medical advice or replace therapy, but they offer validation and groundlevel support to help young people get through the toughest moments and, if needed, connect them with further resources.

TrevorSpace: Peer Support Community Platform

TrevorSpace is the organization’s free, secure, online social community for LGBTQ young people ages 13–24. It isn’t a crisis service but a positive place for connection, friendship, and community building. I often encourage youth who feel alone or isolated to try TrevorSpace, where they can meet others who understand their challenges and celebrate their identities.

I’ve seen how TrevorSpace provides a break from negativity and misinformation often found on general social media platforms. Instead, it’s full of peertopeer encouragement, discussion groups, and safe opportunities to talk about anything from favorite TV shows to experiences with coming out or family stress.

Features of TrevorSpace include:

• Profile customization with privacy and safety in mind
• Showcasing identities and pronouns
• Moderated forums and chat rooms
• Strict rules to keep the conversation positive, supportive, and age appropriate

From what I’ve seen in the feedback of young people who use it, TrevorSpace helps reduce feelings of isolation and boosts selfesteem through new friendships. For LGBTQ youth living in areas where acceptance is low, this online community can feel like a lifeline.

Educational Resources and Outreach

The Trevor Project doesn’t just focus on crisis moments. I’ve used its educational materials to train staff and students at schools, community groups, and youth organizations. The nonprofit offers workshops, guides, research reports, and webinars that help adults recognize warning signs of crisis, practice supportive language, and create more welcoming spaces.

The range of topics covered includes:

• The basics of gender identity and sexual orientation
• How to talk supportively with young LGBTQ people
• Identifying and responding to signs of suicide risk
• Understanding bullying, cyberbullying, and discrimination
• Best practices for schools and youth workers
• Research on LGBTQ youth mental health

One resource I often recommend is the “Coming Out Handbook,” which answers common questions and prepares teens for a range of possible reactions from family and friends. Other resources explain how to address mental health struggles or handle situations where a young person’s safety is at risk.

Teachers, parents, and peers who want to be better allies can also benefit from these materials. I know adults who felt unsure how to support LGBTQ youth, but after participating in a Trevor Project training, they felt much more confident and aware of inclusive language and best practices.

Research and Advocacy Initiatives

The Trevor Project isn’t only a crisis service and support network. It is also a leader in collecting and sharing research on LGBTQ youth mental health. Every year, the nonprofit conducts national surveys to understand what young people are experiencing, what barriers they face to accessing mental health care, and what kinds of policies or school environments are most supportive.

Results from these surveys help shape the work of educators, policymakers, and healthcare professionals. When I work with local advocacy groups or school boards, I often turn to Trevor Project research for up to date facts and statistics. This data gives voice to youth who might otherwise go unheard.

Key issues addressed by The Trevor Project include:

• Laws and policies affecting LGBTQ youth privacy, safety, and access to care
• Antibullying, antiharrassment, and inclusive curriculum efforts in schools
• The impact of family acceptance or rejection on youth mental health
• Access to genderaffirming care and support services

When local or national policies threaten to increase isolation or put LGBTQ youth at risk, The Trevor Project uses petitions, public campaigns, and expert testimony to raise awareness and stand behind safer communities.

The Staff, Board, and Training Approach

Staff at The Trevor Project come from diverse backgrounds, including counseling, education, technology, and policy. Every counselor goes through a strict training process focused on suicide prevention strategies, cultural competency, and crisis deescalation. The nonprofit’s board includes mental health professionals, advocates, and community leaders who keep the work focused on real needs.

I know that counselors and staff also receive ongoing professional development, which is important for keeping up with new mental health issues and changes in how LGBTQ youth use technology. This commitment to continued learning helps the organization stay trustworthy and up to date.

I have met or spoken with several Trevor Project staff at workshops, and each one showed a genuine passion for helping youth. The organization’s staff responds quickly to feedback and shows a real willingness to improve services where needed.

Volunteer Programs

The Trevor Project offers several volunteer opportunities, from crisis counseling to digital outreach to event support. Volunteers must complete an application, screening, and extensive training before they work with youth. This ensures everyone offering support meets a high standard for emotional sensitivity, empathy, and LGBTQ cultural understanding.

While volunteering can be emotionally challenging, many volunteers share that it is deeply rewarding to know they are helping youth through life’s hardest moments. I personally know several people who have volunteered and speak highly of their experience and of the organization’s excellent support.

What Sets The Trevor Project Apart

One thing that really stands out to me about The Trevor Project is its usercentered philosophy. Services are available at no cost, 24/7, and don’t require insurance or signup. Youth control how and when they ask for help. Support is available by phone, chat, or text, which lowers the barriers for those in distress.

The Trevor Project also keeps privacy and confidentiality front and center. All communications are secure, which is vital for LGBTQ youth who may be at risk if their identities are disclosed without their consent.

In my experience, the organization works hard to make every young person feel respected and welcome, regardless of labels or background. Services are offered in English, but some resources are available in Spanish or with translation support as well.

Accessibility and Availability

Youth can access The Trevor Project’s services from anywhere in the United States. Since support is offered by phone, web, and SMS, it works well for those who may not have access to inperson services or who live in rural or unsupportive areas.

The digital approach means The Trevor Project can offer steady support, even during bad weather, school breaks, or other disruptions. During the COVID19 pandemic when many inperson counseling sessions paused or moved online, The Trevor Project saw a surge in contacts but was able to adapt quickly and keep all services running. I know several young people who relied on this safety net during long periods of social isolation.

Safety, Confidentiality, and Privacy Practices

Everyone who reaches out to The Trevor Project does so in a confidential environment. The organization does not share contact details or personal information unless someone gives clear permission or unless there is an immediate threat to someone’s life or safety that requires emergency action.

Counselors are trained to handle sensitive topics carefully and to respect each young person’s wishes about privacy and disclosure. Conversations are not recorded, and personal details are not sold or shared for marketing purposes.

This focus on safety and privacy makes a big difference for youth who may be fearful of being outed or judged. In my professional work, I advise young people that they can trust Trevor Project staff to protect their confidentiality.

How The Trevor Project is Funded

As a nonprofit, The Trevor Project relies on donations, grants, corporate sponsorships, and fundraising events. Services are free for all users, and the organization is transparent about where its funding comes from. I appreciate how easy it is to see details about their finances and annual reports on their website. This level of transparency inspires trust and shows that donations go directly towards services, education, and advocacy.

I’ve personally supported The Trevor Project through fundraising campaigns and community events because I know the funding makes a real impact. The organization also receives support from large companies, foundations, and individual donors. Charity watchdog groups such as Charity Navigator give The Trevor Project high marks for financial health, accountability, and transparency.

How to Donate or Get Involved

Anyone can make onetime or recurring donations through The Trevor Project’s website. You can also set up peertopeer fundraisers, join corporate giving programs, or participate in awareness and advocacy campaigns. Volunteers can apply online for different roles based on interests and availability.

Impact Statistics and Measured Outcomes

The Trevor Project provides support to hundreds of thousands of youth every year. Its annual reports share key data about the number of crisis interventions, chats, and texts, as well as the subjects most often discussed. The organization also measures satisfaction and outcomes to ensure services are meeting real needs.

Some highlights from recent years include:

• Hundreds of thousands of calls, chats, and texts answered per year
• Consistently high ratings from users for counselor empathy, professionalism, and helpfulness
• Significant increases in youth reporting reduced isolation or hopelessness after interacting with Trevor support

Survey results show that most young people who connect with The Trevor Project find the experience life-changing. Many say that knowing there’s a resource just for them gives them strength during hard times. I have seen firsthand how even one positive interaction with a counselor or peer can start to mix it up a youth's outlook.

Reviews and Testimonials

Users of The Trevor Project’s services often share moving stories about how the organization helped them feel heard, safe, or less alone. Parents, teachers, and mental health providers also praise The Trevor Project’s supportive approach and specialized understanding of LGBTQ youth challenges.

Here is a selection of common themes and direct feedback that I’ve seen:

• Youth report that The Trevor Project is “the only place I could talk about being LGBTQ” without fear of judgment.
• People praise the speed with which counselors respond and their patience with difficult conversations.
• Many say Trevor support was the first time an adult took their feelings seriously and listened without bias.
• Youth mention that being able to text or chat, rather than call, makes it much easier to reach out.
• Parents and teachers note that the hotline and training have helped them open up supportive conversations in their homes and schools.

Like with all organizations, not every interaction is perfect, but the overwhelming response is positive. Any concerns or feedback are taken seriously by staff and used to improve services.

Partnerships and Community Involvement

The Trevor Project partners with schools, businesses, advocacy organizations, and healthcare providers to broaden its reach and build supportive networks for LGBTQ youth. I’ve seen Trevor Project speakers at conferences, pride events, and school assemblies, where they provide education and visibility that can often reduce prejudice and stigma.

Schools and community groups can request customized training or partner with The Trevor Project for mental health programs and peer education. This helps create larger networks of allies and safer spaces for LGBTQ young people.

Pros and Cons – My Personal View

Like any resource, The Trevor Project has strengths and some areas where there is still room to grow. Based on my experience and the feedback I receive from youth, here’s how I see it:

• Pros:
• 
  
  • 24/7 free and confidential crisis support by phone, chat, or text
  • Specialized approach for LGBTQ youth under 25
  • Peer community (TrevorSpace) is safe and positive
  • Extensive educational and training materials
  • Strong advocacy and uptodate research
  • High transparency and solid reputation for impact
  • Accessible nationwide, including rural/remote regions
  • Quick response times and high satisfaction ratings
• Cons:
• 
  
  • Services are available only in English, though some resources are translated
  • School firewalls or parental controls sometimes block web or chat access
  • Extremely high demand can occasionally lead to longer wait times at peak hours
  • Not a replacement for long term therapy or psychiatric care; crisis intervention only
  • Youth outside the U.S. have more limited access

Despite these limitations, I have found The Trevor Project to be a lifesaving, empowering tool for young people and those who care about them.

How to Access Services

You can connect with The Trevor Project at any hour, every day of the year. Here’s how I suggest reaching out:

• Call the Trevor Lifeline: 18664887386
• Text “START” to 678678 from any mobile device
• Visit thetrevorproject.org for chat and educational resources

You don’t need to be in crisis to reach out. Even if you just need to talk, want information, or aren’t sure what to say, the team will do their best to help. Adults who want more information or to refer a young person can also use the helpline and resources for guidance.

How to Support or Refer Someone

If you’re supporting a young person who might benefit from The Trevor Project, it helps to:

• Save the number and website in your phone or share it with youth directly
• Reassure them that support is confidential, nonjudgmental, and always available
• Offer to sit with them while they make a call or start a chat if they feel nervous
• Use Trevor Project educational resources to build understanding and confidence

Sometimes, just knowing an adult cares and can share a trustworthy resource can make a huge difference for a young person.

My Final Thoughts and Recommendations

After years of working with LGBTQ youth and using The Trevor Project as a resource, I feel confident recommending it. The organization is a leader in crisis support, a powerful voice for advocacy, and a safe community for young people who need connection and understanding.

The Trevor Project’s services work as both a safety net and a starting point for youth who are struggling or questioning. Even one caring conversation or positive interaction can be the spark that leads to hope and healing. For adults hoping to make a difference, The Trevor Project offers practical tools and guidance that make allyship easier and more effective.

For young people who need support, whether it’s crisis help, peer friendships, or simple affirmation that their identities are real and valid, I keep The Trevor Project at the top of my list. In my experience, its team goes the extra mile to make sure everyone who reaches out feels less alone and more empowered for the future.

If you or someone you know could use support, visit thetrevorproject.org to access all services and resources for free.

PS: If you have questions about referring someone, volunteering, or using Trevor Project resources, feel free to drop a comment below or connect with The Trevor Project’s staff directly on their website. Timely and compassionate help is available, often much sooner than most people expect.