A young man had begun his coming out process by confiding in some high school friends. They had been supportive and his next step was to inform his parents, but he was extremely nervous. He called 2-1-1 for assistance.

Sensitive to the youth’s situation the 211 Specialist listened while the youth shared details of how he felt the conversation with his parents might play out. The caller was confident that they would be supportive as they were open minded people. The agent referred the youth to Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) in case his parents required support. He was also directed to Prideline Durham, the LGBT Youthline for the province of Ontario and the Support Our Youth Program in Toronto in case he desired additional support as he moved through his coming out process.

He was told to call 211 in the future if he had any trouble when he came out or if he needed any other services.