Outloud Foundation for LGBTQ Supports and Services

OUTLOUD FOUNDATION for 2SLGBTQ+ Community Supports and Services first opened its doors in March 2014 as a safe, inclusive space for LGBTQ youth to connect with each other and allies, away from the intense bullying and high suicide rates still prevalent in their community.

Mia Soetaert was living in St. Albert when she was fortunate to come out to a supportive family who then discovered the lack of understanding, non-judgmental environment for other diverse youth struggling with their sexuality and gender identities. Mia and her father Terry created Outloud Foundation for LGBTQ Community Supports and Services, an Alberta non-profit incorporation, and started the twice-monthly adult-supervised Youth meetings. Over the years, Outloud has grown from 4 youth in a church basement to a staffed agency that supports all members of the community. Outloud supports all ages and stages of discovery including juniors, adults, parents, and siblings. On top of supporting community members, Outloud takes an active role in advocating for the queer community and providing training to organizations looking to strengthen their inclusion practices.

Outloud also runs St. Albert Pride and other events throughout the year.