Advocacy
We are committed to amplifying the voices of those most vulnerable and ensuring LGBTQ+ youth are seen, heard, and supported. Advocacy is central to our work. We actively engage with Gay-Straight Alliances (GSAs), schools, and community groups to share knowledge, build confidence, and create meaningful pathways for action. From speaking engagements to collaborative initiatives, we help others understand how they can show up, speak out, and drive change for queer youth. Reach out if you have an advocacy opportunity or are looking to get involved.
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Housing
In 2019, we opened Courage House, Wisconsin’s first and only licensed group home for displaced LGBTQ+ youth in out-of-home care. Youth at Courage House receive a stable and affirming living environment, clear expectations paired with supportive structure, daily care from trained and compassionate staff, and intentional programming that fosters growth, coping skills, and independence.
In 2024, we opened our second location for LGBTQ+ young adults ages 18-24. Our C2 Apartments support young adults as they move toward independence. This program blends housing with case management, accountability, and wraparound support to help young people build sustainable adult lives.
Apply for C2 Today
Scholarships & Grants
Every year we partner with the Cream City Foundation to offer one $5000 scholarship to a graduating senior in Wisconsin. Since 2015, we have granted over $42,000 in scholarships to support post-high school education for LGBTQ+ young people. This scholarship opportunity opens every year in the spring and can be found on the Cream City Foundation website.
We believe that it is important for all students to have access to safe spaces in their schools. On a quarterly basis we award one Wisconsin High or Middle School Gay Straight Alliance (or equivalent) with a $350.00 grant to help the the organization make their school community safe for queer students.
Apply for Grants
Give-Back Programs
Giving back is a core part of life at Courage+. Each quarter, our residents participate in at least one community service project, from neighborhood “after winter” cleanups to trash pick-ups along the Kinnickinnic River. They also serve as “Holiday Helpers,” supporting over 40 families every year on Milwaukee’s South Side by fulfilling wish list items during the holiday season.
+YOU
+YOU is Courage’s community-facing programming, offering education, training, and support to nonprofits, organizations, businesses, allies, and anyone wanting to learn. Education is at the heart of what we do and a vital part of meaningful advocacy and change. Our offerings include but are not limited to, a one-hour LGBTQ+ crash course for staff meetings, a comprehensive six-week allyship program, youth support groups, and knowledge and wellness groups for adults with LGBTQ+ youth in their lives.
Youth Advisory Board
Meeting virtually once a month, the Courage+ Youth Advisory Board is a powerful group of young leaders ages 14-21 who help shape the future of our programs. This board centers the voices of LGBTQ+ youth across the state of Wisconsin and ensures that everything we do is guided by lived experience, inclusion, and care.
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GSAs
We believe GSAs are powerful spaces where LGBTQ+ youth build connection, confidence, and community, and we’re here to support you.
We visit GSAs across the state to share more about the work we do, offer resources, and create space for conversation, connection, and care. Whether you’re just getting started or have been established for years, we want to walk alongside you.
We also invite your GSA to stay connected through our monthly Bravespace Newsletter. It’s filled with statewide youth events, GSA grant opportunities, ways to get involved, and invitations to be part of the Courage+ community, including marching with us each year in the Milwaukee Pride Parade.
Fill out the form below to get connected, we can’t wait to meet you.
Submit your GSA Information here