It Gets Better Joins Forces with the American Red Cross to Mobilize LGBTQ+ Youth Leaders and Address the National Blood Shortage

LOS ANGELES, CA — It Gets Better, the world’s largest storytelling organization for LGBTQ+ youth and a leading force in youth empowerment, is proud to announce a bold new collaboration with the American Red Cross, one of the most respected humanitarian aid organizations in the world. Together, they are collaborating on an initiative that invites LGBTQ+ youth to lead at a national level, address a critical blood shortage, and step into visible, life-saving roles in their communities.

Through the American Red Cross’s Leaders Save Lives program, high school and college students—including those in trade and technical schools—can host their own blood drives, rally their networks, and help meet the urgent need for blood donations. In return, participants earn volunteer hours, receive gift cards, become eligible for college scholarships, and gain real-world experience that sets them apart—all while helping the Red Cross deliver vital care during one of the most challenging blood shortages in recent history.

“This is about giving LGBTQ+ youth the opportunity to lead in spaces where they’ve long been excluded,” said Brian Wenke, Executive Director of It Gets Better. “Partnering with an institution like the American Red Cross affirms the power and potential of young queer changemakers. We’re proud to be recognized for our ability to authentically connect with and support the next generation of LGBTQ+ trailblazers.”

This effort builds on It Gets Better’s mission to uplift, empower, and connect LGBTQ+ youth, deepening the organization’s commitment to youth-driven impact. Through It Gets Better: Changemakers, the organization has funded more than 140 student-led projects across the U.S. and Canada. Its Youth Voices program has mentored over 30 ambassadors, providing tools, training, and opportunities to create meaningful change. Leaders Save Lives adds a new and urgent dimension to that work, positioning LGBTQ+ students as vital partners in public health.

Eligible participants must be enrolled in high school, college, university, technical school, trade school, or community college. Drives must meet collection goals and be officially affiliated with Leaders Save Lives to qualify for rewards.

Ready to lead and save lives?

Visit itgetsbetter.org/red-cross to learn more.