The first Encircle Center was founded in 2017 and a second one was founded just this last February on the eighth. Encircle, according to the non-profit organization’s website, “Encircle seeks to deepen and enrich the conversation among communities of faith and LGBTQ+ people. By teaching individuals to love themselves and empowering families, Encircle helps cultivate an environment where LGBTQ+ individuals can thrive. Our programs and services meet people wherever they are in their lives with cultural competency and sensitivity, using community partnerships, best practices, and innovative techniques”

Stephenie Larson, Encircle founder and Brigham University graduate, said that the center will show youth that “they are loved and valued just as they are.” During the opening of the center, Larson explained that suicide is the leading cause of death in people from 15 to 24 years old and the rate of suicides in that age group are surpassing the national average. She also explained how LGBT youth are three times more likely to die by suicide than straight people.

The centers offer therapy and counseling for LGBT individuals and their families.

Encircle is different from other LGBTQ centers because Encircle focuses on family and opening up communication with religion.

Multiple politicians of Utah attended the opening of the center. Among them was Lt. Gov. Spencer Cox and Salt Lake City Mayor Jackie Biskupsi. Cox spoke at the event and said that the center will make youth feel accepted. When the youth are accepted, the chance of them dying by suicide will lessen.

(Salt Lake Tribune and KSL)

Encircle locations:

Encircle Provo

91 W 200 S, Provo, UT 84601

Encircle Salt Lake City

331 S 600 E, Salt Lake City, UT 84102