Young people from BreakOut groups from around the county gathered in Gartan recently for a fun-filled and action packed weekend.
BreakOut is a project for young LGBTI people, LGBTI Allies and young people that believe in social justice aged 12-30, and is operated by Donegal Youth Service. Currently there are groups meeting up regularly in Letterkenny, Ballybofey, Glenties and Moville offering information, training, one-to-one support and guaranteed craic.
Participants had a wide range of activities to try over the weekend. From archery to kayaking and everything in between, as well as loads of team building activities. Young people also spent time coming up with designs for a new BreakOut hoodie to show their pride. Finally, a big rainbow filled BreakOut cake was enjoyed by all.
The aim of BreakOut is to ‘work for an Ireland where LGBTI (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex) young people are empowered to embrace their development and growth confidently and to participate as agents of positive social change in their own environment’.
You do not need to be ‘out’ to attend BreakOut. Young people who are unsure, are questioning, or are looking for support are welcome to come along and bring their straight friends for support. The groups offer a safe, non-judgemental space to all.
BreakOut operates with a countrywide steering group consisting of personnel from the HSE, Gardai, Youth Reach, Donegal Youth Service, Donegal Youth Council, Letterkenny Youth and Family Service, ETB Youth Officer, Inishowen Development Partnership, Pobail Le Cheile, Family Resource Centres and Belong to. The project has been in operation since April 2009.
The weekend was made possible thanks to funding from Healthy Ireland. For more information about BreakOut contact Sinead Murray at Donegal Youth Service, 16-18 Port Road Letterkenny, 074 91 29630, www.donegalyouthservice.ie, or find BreakOut on Facebook. Donegal Youth Service are a registered charity, Charity No. CHY 15027.
