Create the space you wish you had.
Out of more than 5,000 mentoring programs in the U.S., only five focus specifically on Queer and Gender Nonconforming youth. Rainbow Labs is proud to be one of them — and we’re looking for mentors who want to show up, share their story, and help create something better.
Whether you’re mentoring for the first time or have years of experience, your identity and lived experience matter. Together, we build safe, affirming spaces that many of us needed growing up — and now get to pass on.
Become a Mentor
Why become a Rainbow Labs mentor?
Create Safe Spaces
You remember finding your first safe space - and how important this was to embracing your entire identity. Now you get an opportunity to create the first or one of the many safe spaces our youth need.
Share New Experiences
Just as you might be having your first experience as a mentor with Rainbow Labs, many of our youth are too. Sharing new experiences with others can elevate the sense of belonging and connection.
Facilitate Friendships
Being a teenager can be awkward. We all remember. But having a mentor break the ice, make it fun, and facilitate connection can make the experience of meeting new friends and people much easier.
What’s it like to be a Rainbow Labs mentor?
What to expect as a Rainbow Labs mentor
Training
All of our mentors receive training before leading a Lab. We’ll cover topics like mandated reporting, identity development, LGBTQ+ 101, youth development, trauma-informed care, and more.
Group Mentoring
You won’t do it alone! Our Labs use a team-based mentoring model, so you’ll be paired with another mentor and supported by Rainbow Labs staff.
Staff Support
Our team is here to support you every step of the way — from training and planning to real-time check-ins during programs. Whether you have questions, need advice, or just want to talk something through, Rainbow Labs staff are your go-to for guidance and encouragement.
Communication Tools
All mentors receive a Rainbow Labs email address and access to our private Slack channel. These tools help us keep communication safe, respectful, and organized. The Slack space also gives mentors a place to connect, share experiences, ask questions, and offer resources during the program.
Short-Term, High-Impact Labs
We offer short mentoring "sprints" with high levels of mentoring time in a short amount of time. Most of our programming runs in 6 - 10 week increments.
– Storytelling Lab Mentor
“Spending time with these kids shows how timeless, resilient, smart, cool, and funny they are. I feel filled with hope, love, and softness because of them.”
– Rainbow Labs Participant
“Throughout these past weeks, I have discovered things from my own being that I did not know were even there.”
Mentors are matched to programs based on their interests and experience:
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Storytelling
6-12 week in-school program where LGBTQ+ youth share their stories, lead projects, and shape their community. Their ideas drive the program — and their voices lead the way.
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Science & Technology
A STEM-focused mentorship program designed to address the underrepresentation of LGBTQIA+ individuals in science and technology.
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Sports
Welcoming space for LGBTQ+ youth to play, connect, and build confidence through team sports, seasonal leagues, and inclusive sports clinics led by supportive mentors.
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Leadership
From October through June, LGBTQIA+ youth serve as advisors to Rainbow Labs’ staff and board, contributing insights on programming, recruitment, and community needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? Email us at info@rainbowlabs.org
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We welcome LGBTQIA+ adults (18+) and strong allies who are passionate about supporting Queer and Gender Nonconforming youth. You don’t need prior experience — just a willingness to learn, show up, and be present.
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Nope! Many of our mentors are first-timers. We provide training and staff support to help you feel prepared and confident before you start.
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Most of our programs run in 6–10 week sprints. You’ll know the schedule before you commit, and we’ll match you with programs that fit your availability.
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Before the program starts, we host a training that covers LGBTQ+ 101, youth development, trauma-informed care, mandated reporting, and more. The training is 3-4 weeks long and can be completed at your own pace.
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Yes, most of our programs happen in person in East and South LA. We occasionally have virtual mentoring opportunities, but the majority of our Labs are local to Los Angeles, California.