Pictured above: Girl Scouts of NYPENN Pathways, Camp Beyond Binary | Photo by: Girl Scouts of NYPENN Pathways, Camp Beyond Binary
Powered by the Girl Scouts of NYPENN Pathways (Girl Scouts), Beyond, previously known as Camp Beyond Binary, is a safe space where every young person can embrace their limitless potential and thrive. The transformative summer camp for LGBTQIA+ youth and their families equips camp goers with the skills and resources needed to lead successful, healthy lives.
“Beyond is more than a camp—it’s a celebration of individuality and a beacon of hope for a brighter future,” said Emery Grant, program director of Beyond. “Our goal is to provide an environment that fosters health, success and a sense of belonging for all youth, regardless of their sex assigned at birth.”
The Girl Scouts piloted Beyond in August 2022 at Camp Amahami in Broome County. The camp, going on its fourth year, provides two week-long opportunities for around 120 LGBTQIA+ youth, ages 12-17. Campers partake in outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, boating, bonfires and games in an inclusive environment where they can be themselves. Through these activities, youth develop life and career skills and useful social and emotional tools.
While LGBTQIA+ youth find comfort and community at Beyond, the need for such a space is underscored by the disproportionate mental health challenges they face compared to their non- LGBTQIA+ peers.
“Teens face ridicule and violence within schools despite the anti-discrimination protection laws that protect public institutions in New York State,” said Grant. “These instances often result in LGBTQIA+ youth avoiding school, which negatively impacts their attendance and academic performance.”
In addition to missing school, these youths face higher risks of drug and alcohol abuse, eating disorders, physical violence, sexual assault, homelessness, trafficking and abduction. According to the Youth Risk Behavior Survey Data Summary & Trends Report, more than 3 out of 5 LGBTQIA+ students experienced persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness during the 2023 school year.
Grant explained that Beyond is dedicated to breaking down the barriers affecting the mental and physical safety of youth. By providing opportunities for parents and families to learn and engage with youth through educational camp activities, it allows them to better support their children.
“Youth in the LGBTQIA+ community aren’t always able to live openly as themselves because they fear not being treated with kindness and respect,” said Grant. “Beyond’s programming provides accessible activities that foster relationship building with their families and peers, inspiring the kids to feel more comfortable in their unique queer identities,” he said.
Grant added that youth living in rural communities who are working to establish comfortability within their identities, may not often see representation of people like them. This is why Beyond offers relationship building activities and travel opportunities, so youth can spend time bonding and creating meaningful relationships with their LGBTQIA+ peers and allies across the region.
“At Beyond, we recognize self-advocacy, resilience and normalizing spaces where we can be ourselves as LGBTQIA+ people with integrity and mutual respect,” said Grant. “Our priority is making LGBTQIA+ youth aware of the community’s rich history, culture and people of achievement who came before them.”
Based on feedback from campers, along with additional research and observations, the Girl Scouts and Beyond’s planning committee recognized the need to expand offerings for LGBTQ+ youth and their families beyond the week-long summer camp.
With the support of a $40,000 grant from our Community Fund, the Girl Scouts hired a Social Worker to lead monthly meet-ups, peer groups and other activities for youth and their families all year long. This programming provides a space for youth and their families to maintain and deepen their connections with other families, access resources and find support from mental health professionals. In addition to the meet-ups and peer groups, activities include art shows, writing workshops, guest speakers and more.
“Through the expansion of our programming we hope to provide the space for youth and their families to draw strength and resources from a community that understands and supports them.”
