Rainbow Labs in L.A. looks to support and mentor queer Latino youth
As featured in De Los
This article was originally reported by Chelsea Hylton, Staff Writer at De Los, and published on July 31, 2023. Read the full article on the Los Angeles Times website.
In a feature by De Los Staff Writer Chelsea Hylton, Rainbow Labs is spotlighted for its powerful work creating safe, affirming spaces for queer and gender non-conforming youth—especially within Latino communities in L.A. County. Co-founders Jacob Toups and Luis Vasquez launched the organization in response to a deep need for LGBTQ+ mentorship, inspired by their own experiences and community input.
The article highlights Rainbow Labs' unique programming, from storytelling and youth councils to field trips like their visit to NFL Studios. It also explores the organization's commitment to bilingual resources, cultural sensitivity, and building connections across neighborhoods.
“There are 5,000 mentoring programs in the U.S., and only about five focus on LGBTQ+ youth,” said Toups. Rainbow Labs is working to change that.
Read the full article in De Los via the Los Angeles Times.
