Mission

STRUTS is a three part program, based at Central Michigan University (CMU). We offer:

  • a bi-weekly activity/social group open to area teenagers ages 14-18, with a special invitation to students who are experiencing stress at school or home because of perceived sexual orientation or gender expression;

  • educational seminars for STRUTS teens and area parents, and

  • consultation to schools on how to create a safer, more inclusive, school climate.


    • The STRUTS social group for teens is free and open to gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (GLBTQ) youth and their friends. STRUTS provides a place for teens to have fun, make friends, learn, and be accepted. Activities are planned by STRUTS teens under the supervision of an adult coordinator, Rachel Prevatt. Meetings are held on CMU's campus.
Research has shown that bullying, harassment, and name calling are serious problems in Michigan schools. GLBTQ students are frequently the targets of this harassment. Through STRUTS we hope to offer an innovative, proactive approach to promote resilience and positive self-esteem among teens who may feel they "don't fit in" because of sexual orientation or gender expression.