Celebrating Pride and Purpose: Spotlight on Time Out Youth

by Srujana Kanchibhotla

With Pride Month upon us, there is no better moment to spotlight one of this year’s inspiring grant semi-finalists – Time Out Youth! 

Nestled in a welcoming one-story building on Monroe Road, just outside of Cotswold, Time Out Youth is a vibrant community center dedicated to LGBTQ+ youth. Under the leadership of Executive Director Sarah Mikhail, the organization provides a safe and affirming space where young people ages 13 to 24 can truly be themselves. Their mission – “promoting awareness, understanding, acceptance and inclusion”- isn’t just words on a wall. It is lived out every day through the energy, compassion and connection with one another.

Since its founding in 1991, Time Out Youth has been a cornerstone of support for the Charlotte LGBTQ+ teens, who are navigating some of life’s most vulnerable years. Walk through the doors and you’ll find more than just a center – you’ll find a home. Teens gather in corners to play games, share stories or simply enjoy the freedom to be authentic. The energy is contagious, and it’s not just in the youth who shine – the staff radiates warmth and joy. There is a true open-door spirit here, where everyone is welcomed with a smile. 

The Center offers more than just community – it also provides critical services, including counseling, coaching, housing case management as well as a full calendar of social activities. Thanks to a partnership with Lowe’s, the teens now also have a beautifully designed backyard retreat – another safe space to laugh, relax and just be kids.

At the helm of this space is Sarah Mikhail, the first woman of color to lead the organization. Since taking on the role in 2021, her impact has been nothing short of transformative. With a background in social work, Sarah brings a deep understanding of the challenges these youth face – and a fierce passion for making a difference. Under her leadership, Time Out Youth has seen increases in funding, visibility and community engagement – and she’s just getting started. 

Want to support Time Out Youth and be part of this powerful mission? Here’s how you can get involved:

1. ❤️ Donate – Every dollar makes a difference.

2. 📦 Purchase from their Amazon Wish List – help meet real, immediate needs. 

3. 📧 Subscribe to their newsletter – Stay in the loop and celebrate their wins. 

4. 🙌🏽 Volunteer your time – Join the team and experience the magic firsthand. 

5. 📍 Stop by the center – See the space, meet the team and feel the impact.

 

This Pride Month, I also encourage you to attend one of Time Out Youth’s community events. Whether you are there to support, learn or simply to celebrate, you will leaving feeling inspired. 

1. Friday, June 27 – Birdsong Brewing Pride Wrap Party from 5 pm to 8 pm. 

2. Friday, August 15 – HiWire Brewing Silent Disco Pride Party (time TBD). 

All events are as simple as showing up, with a portion of each evening’s proceeds coming to support Time Out Youth. Both events will have live music, so bring the whole family for a family fun day!

Let’s uplift and amplify the work of this incredible organization – because when our youth feel seen, safe and supported, the entire community shines brighter.