40% of homeless youth are LGBTQ, a highly disproportionate number. When systematic oppression and homophobia directly result in the homelessness of LGBTQ youth, it’s time to wake up to the realities and stop assigning blame elsewhere. That’s the message from LGBTQ advocate Melissa Moore. It’s in their experience that small acts of love, kindness and support have drastically changed the feelings of isolation and despair felt by so many in the LGBTQ youth community. From failing systems to less than desirable resources to an oppressive environment, Melissa’s work is focused on helping to identify and challenge the common experiences of LGBTQ youth that often leads to homelessness.

As a pioneer in the local community, Melissa Moore is committed to the support, liberation and equality for LGBTQ youth stemming from their own experience of coming out at a young age. As the 2016 recipient of the Center for Women Influential Women In Business “Rising Star” award, Melissa’s goal is to inspire self-worth throughout the LGBTQ youth community and bring an end to this homelessness.