by Phillip Dell
Contributor
When I first came to Nashville, I found a lonely place waiting for me.
I was still a teenager, fresh out of high school and ready to start a new life for myself. At first, I struggled to find the social outlet that I needed; I didn’t know how to meet quality people. I frequently asked myself, “Where are people like me?”
I found the answer to my question at One‐In‐Teen Youth Services. Every Wednesday night, I could meet people my age from diverse backgrounds, and find needed support in a world that can be hostile to those who are different.
Hard lessons would be learned over the course of a few years, but I found the support that I needed to get through it. Once I felt Nashville comfort, I was ready to find my place. Without the support of my peers and leaders at One‐In‐Teen, I would not have realized the potential I have reached today.
I’ve learned how to live a life free of shame, how to succeed, and to value my community. I’m involved in a long‐term relationship with Nashville, and enjoy watching the culture around me grow and change.
Starting now, you can look forward to a column from One‐In‐Teen in Out & About Newspaper. You’ll hear from teens and adult members and volunteers about our experiences and aspirations. I hope that our words will inspire you.
For almost 20 years, One‐In‐Teen has been an anchor for Nashville GLBT youth. We provide a safe environment for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgendered, and questioning youth to participate in peer support and find community involvement. Have questions or want to get involved? Email us at Info@One-In-Teen.org or drop in for our Wednesday night support group from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at 617 Hart Lane in Nashville.
