Rainbow Labs is a bold, joyful space where Queer and Gender Nonconforming youth (ages 12–18) in Los Angeles can be themselves, find community, and explore who they want to become — one connection at a time.

‍

Launched in 2020 by Jacob Toups and Luis Vasquez, Rainbow Labs aimed to address the unique challenges faced by queer and gender-nonconforming youth. Jacob and Luis both know these unique challenges, having encountered them while growing up in their communities. Bullying and a lack of supportive environments in these communities never allowed them to connect to other members of the Queer and Gender Nonconforming community. This community of peers was not found until much later in life, where they found safe and supportive spaces to explore their identities. In creating Rainbow Labs, they want to ensure that the next generation of LGBTQ+ youth finds their community, peers, and safe spaces earlier on, while gaining a sense of empowerment that propels them into bright futures.

‍

Upcoming Opportunities at Rainbow Labs:

‍

One Bold Summer is Rainbow Labs’ four-week summer program for LGBTQIA+ middle and high school students, designed to help them explore their identities, try new experiences, build leadership skills, and imagine bold futures in a safe, affirming, and supportive environment. If you're an LGBTQ+ 13-18-year-old based in LA, then this is the program for you! Each week, Rainbow Labs provides programming in arts, STEM, leadership/ sports, and field trips! They also offer a $1,000 scholarship to participating youth at the end of the four-week program! OBS kicks off July 7-31 from 1-5 p.m.  Tuesday through Friday.

‍