Marginalized communities suffer higher rates of sexual harm. That includes lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer people targeted for sexual harassment, assault, and exploitation. Support tailored to the community’s unique experiences of oppression and needs can better help folks heal from harm, prevent future violence, and build strong networks. So, where can LGBTQ+ survivors of sexual violence go for help? Thankfully, many excellent resources are available in Chicago! 

Services for Chicago’s LGBTQ+ Community

CAASE created this guide to help survivors find and access trauma-informed resources, services, and supports. Below is the section for organizations with a focus on the LGBTQ+ community. 

Affinity Community Services

For 25 years, Affinity Community Services have centered Black queer women through community organizing, intergenerational programming, education, and healing justice. They are a Black-led, queer-led organization on Chicago’s Southside dedicated to social justice in Black LGBTQ+ communities. They offer assistance in accessing mental health services, peer group gatherings, community events, and more. 

773-324-0377
2850 S. Wabash Ave #108, Chicago, IL 60616
www.affinity95.org

Brave Space Alliance

Brave Space Alliance is a Black-led, trans-led LGBTQ+ Center located on the South Side of Chicago. It’s designed to create and provide affirming and culturally competent services for the entire LGBTQ+ community of Chicago. They assist with necessities like food and shelter and offer support groups, gender-affirming rooms, referrals, and other resources.

773-424-2959
1515 E 52nd Pl 3rd Floor, Chicago, IL 60609
www.bravespacealliance.org

Center on Halsted

Considered the Midwest’s most comprehensive community center dedicated to advancing community and securing the health and well-being of LGBTQ+ people of Chicagoland, the Center on Halstead provides an impressive number of services and activities. They offer individual behavioral health therapy, group therapy, legal referrals, HIV/STD and sexual health services, yoga, and much more.

LGBTQ Anti-Violence Project Hotline at the Center on Halsted
Call for information, counseling, and referrals.
(773) 871-2273

Main Line
(773) 472-6469
3656 N. Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60613
www.centeronhalsted.org

Howard Brown Health

Access LGBTQ+ affirming primary care, STI/STD testing, HIV/AIDS services, transgender and gender non-conforming healthcare, and women’s health services at clinics across Chicago through Howard Brown Health. They also run a program called “In Power” that is designed to provide support to members of the LGBTQ+ community who have experienced sexual harm. You can learn more about it here.

773-388-1600
Locations:
641 W 63rd St, Chicago, IL 60621
1525 E 55th St, Chicago, IL 60637
3245 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60657
4025 N Sheridan Rd, Chicago, IL 60613
www.howardbrown.org

Lighthouse Foundation 

Lighthouse Foundation is a Black Queer-led, multiracial social justice organization that advances justice for Black LGBTQ+ people across Chicagoland through empowerment, education, and entertainment. They facilitate community organizing and social groups, offer mental health resources, put on events, and more.

Email info@lightfoundchi.org
2335 N Orchard St. Chicago, IL 60614
www.lightfoundchi.org

Artistic Expression and Community Connection with CAASE

The Chicago Alliance Against Sexual Exploitation (CAASE) provides a platform for survivor healing through community engagement. It aims to create a roadmap for changing how people and systems respond to sexual harm. CAASE’s efforts center and connect those most impacted by sexual harm, including LGBTQ+ communities. This work includes producing trauma-informed public programming and arts opportunities featuring survivors. Learn more about these events here.

(773) 244-2230
307 N Michigan Ave. Suite 1818, Chicago, IL 60901
www.caase.org

Free Legal Assistance with CAASE

Survivors of sexual violence in Cook County may qualify for free legal services through CAASE. Clients receive inclusive, individualized legal advice, consultation, and representation following and related to sexual harm. In criminal matters, particular attention is paid to victims’ rights. Assistance can include explaining legal options and processes, consulting about making a police report, getting law enforcement to respond to cases, and criminal records relief for survivors of the sex trade. CAASE also provides representation for civil litigation, including protective orders, employment and education matters, and Gender Violence Act claims.

To learn more or schedule a consultation, please call Veronica at 773-244-2230, ext. 205 or email legal@caase.org. Even if CAASE can’t assist you, we will attempt to connect you to another attorney and support resources. 

(773) 244-2230
307 N Michigan Ave. Suite 1818, Chicago, IL 60901
www.caase.org

Connecting to Help Outside of Chicago

If you don’t live in the Chicago area, visit CenterLink. It is an international nonprofit organization and member-based association of LGBTQ+ centers and other organizations serving local and regional communities. You can use their website to search for support in your area.

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CAASE published this piece on June 09, 2022. Hayley Forrestal authored it with input from Anika Sterling Florez, who leads CAASE’s Community Engagement work. Learn more about our staff here.