He/Him

Jack is a social worker with over 15 years experience in youth programs and nonprofits. Jack brings his passion for supporting LGBTQ+ youth and a deep roots in Western New York to provide GLYS the resources and support we need to provide excellent services and advocacy for our youth and their families.

They/Them

Gi began as a volunteer at GLYS in 2019 and became the Director of Programs in June 2024. They completed two full-time Americorps terms of service and have 10+ years of experience in youth, school-based, and community programming. They hold a Master of Social Work degree from the University at Buffalo and are a field educator for students at the University at Buffalo and Daemen  University.

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She/They

A retired pastry chef, Leah came to GLYS in September 2022, with a background in Anthropology & Arts/Media Management from SUNY Purchase College. Leah has over 10 years experience in social/mass media, marketing and event planning, and has held leadership roles in youth programs throughout New York State. Having taken advantage of GLYS as a teenager herself, to work here is an opportunity to work for something that matters to her, personally, and professionally. 

She/Her

Faith began her career at GLYS as an intern and is our current Community Programs Manager. She works with school districts across WNY to make sure our LGBTQ+ students are safe at school by working with administrators, educators, students and GSAs - she is also GLYS' GSA Advisor Liaison. Faith is trained in restorative justice and has a background in psychology, women, gender, and sexuality studies.

He/They

Blaise Mercedes (they/them) is a Youth Peer Advocate specializing in empowering historically underserved youth and young adults aged 10-21. They've worked through GLYS WNY for over 1 year and provide direct youth support for young people across WNY. GLYS WNY services LGBTQ+ youth and their through direct support and community engagement.

Leveraging their personal journey through unstable housing, parental substance abuse, and mental health challenges, Blaise offers sensitive support to youth and their families.

They/Them

Sarah began at GLYS as an intern through the University at Buffalo's Master of Social Work program and became the Family Support Coordinator in the fall of 2023. They have over 10 years of experience working with LGBTQ+ youth and families as well as many years of experience working in education. Sarah holds an MSW from UB and is currently a PhD student in the Social Welfare program where their research area focuses on LGBTQ+ youth and experiences of identity.

She/Her

​Jare is a writer, director, musician, and community organizer with an extensive background in youth programming, arts events organizing, and arts education. She holds a BFA in Acting from Nazareth University, as well as a BA in English from the University at Buffalo. She became the Youth Mentor at GLYS in early 2024 with the goal of being the queer adult in the lives of youth that she was looking for in her own adolescence. She helps run the drop-in center, as well as organize programming and events. She is incredibly excited for opportunities to engage with multiple communities in ways that are meaningful, compassionate, safety-based, and fun.