The 16th Annual EDGY Conference was more than a conference, it was a powerful reminder of what is possible when a community comes together with purpose, compassion, and hope. From the moment attendees walked through the doors, this year's theme, Together We Thrive: Queer Youth, Community, and Change, came to life in ways that exceeded every expectation. Social workers, educators, therapists, caregivers, youth advocates, healthcare professionals, community partners, parents, and allies gathered with one shared mission: to create a world where LGBTQ+ youth are seen, supported, and celebrated. As reflected in this year's opening remarks, thriving has never been something we do alone, it happens when we choose to show up for one another.
Throughout the day, there was an unmistakable sense of connection that could be felt in every conversation, workshop, and shared experience. New friendships were formed, ideas were exchanged, and meaningful collaborations began to take shape. Whether attendees were learning from nationally recognized speakers, participating in interactive breakout sessions, or simply connecting over lunch, the spirit of community was everywhere. It was evident that EDGY has become more than an annual event—it has become a family united by a commitment to supporting LGBTQ+ youth and their families.
One of the highlights of the conference was the bustling Resource Fair, which remained active from beginning to end. Organizations from across Southern California connected attendees with invaluable services, programs, and opportunities, creating an atmosphere filled with energy, curiosity, and collaboration. Every table was alive with conversation, and participants left with new resources, new partnerships, and a deeper understanding of the incredible support available throughout our community.
This year's conference also reminded us that learning can be joyful. Attendees filled the room with laughter, applause, and even dancing as they celebrated Pride, authenticity, and one another. They explored the rich history and cultural significance of drag, reflected on powerful lessons about self-acceptance, and challenged themselves to examine the messages, biases, and beliefs many of us learned growing up that continue to shape how we see ourselves and others. These honest conversations encouraged everyone to look inward, embrace authenticity, and continue the lifelong work of personal growth.
The day was also filled with moments of profound inspiration and reflection. Powerful keynote presentations and workshops encouraged attendees to think differently about affirmation, belonging, advocacy, and healing while providing practical tools they can carry back into their schools, agencies, clinics, and communities. One of the most moving moments came as the conference honored the legacy of Marsha Aizumi by presenting the inaugural Marsha Aizumi Courage & Advocacy Award to Aiden Aizumi, a heartfelt tribute that reminded everyone of the lasting impact one person can have through love, courage, and unwavering advocacy. Together, these experiences reinforced the message that every act of acceptance has the power to change a life.
As the conference came to a close, one thing was abundantly clear: Together We Thrive was not simply this year's theme, it was the experience everyone carried home. EDGY 2026 demonstrated that when we choose courage over comfort, action over silence, and community over division, we create spaces where young people can truly thrive. The overwhelming sense of belonging, hope, and shared purpose made this year's gathering the most impactful EDGY Conference to date, and it leaves us more inspired than ever to continue this work together.
To everyone who attended, presented, volunteered, sponsored, exhibited, and supported EDGY 2026, thank you. Because of you, countless LGBTQ+ youth and families have a stronger network of allies standing beside them. We look forward to carrying this momentum forward and welcoming everyone back next year as we continue building a future where every young person knows they belong, they are valued, and they never have to stand alone.
Check out all the photos from the Conference by clicking the link below!
Each year, as we prepare for EDGY, we put out a call for volunteers across Penny Lane Centers. Year after year, staff answer that call, stepping away from their usual responsibilities to help create a meaningful experience for hundreds of attendees. Their willingness to serve is one of the many reasons EDGY continues to thrive.
Our volunteers play a pivotal role in ensuring the conference runs smoothly. From greeting guests with a warm welcome, managing registration, supporting workshops, answering questions, and assisting with countless behind-the-scenes details, their contributions make all the difference.
While we are always grateful for our seasoned volunteers who know the rhythm of the day and seamlessly jump into action, this year brought something especially meaningful—an influx of new volunteers, many of whom were also new to Penny Lane Centers.
These staff members arrived as early as 7:00 a.m., some traveling nearly two hours, ready to lend a hand. They stepped into unfamiliar roles, unsure of exactly what the day would hold, yet they embraced the experience with enthusiasm, flexibility, and heart. They greeted attendees with warmth and care, provided ongoing support throughout the day, and tackled every task asked of them with a spirit of collaboration and commitment.
From the first table set up to the final box packed away, they were there showing up, pitching in, and helping create the welcoming environment that EDGY is known for. Their dedication exemplifies what makes Penny Lane special: a community of people willing to step outside of their daily routines to support one another and advance our mission.
It is because of these individuals that EDGY was the tremendous success that it was, and for that, we are deeply grateful.
We hope their example serves as an invitation to the rest of our Penny Lane family. Whether you have volunteered for years or have never participated before, there is always a place for you. Together, we can continue to build spaces of connection, belonging, and community—one helping hand at a time.
Check out all the photos from the Conference Volunteers by clicking the link above!
One of the most inspiring moments at this year's EDGY Conference was the debut of Penny Lane Centers' Rainbow Resource Network Gender-Affirming Qloset video, presented by Summer Gomez and the Penny Lane LGBTQ+ Team. As our conference theme, Together We Thrive, reminded us throughout the day, belonging begins when young people are seen, affirmed, and celebrated for exactly who they are. The Qloset embodies that mission by creating a safe, welcoming space where LGBTQ+, transgender, BIPOC, and system-involved youth can access gender-affirming clothing, hygiene products, makeup, shapewear, and other essentials—free of charge. As highlighted during the conference, The Qloset is one of the many ways Penny Lane continues to build affirming spaces where LGBTQ+ youth can thrive.
More than a resource center, The Qloset is a place where young people can express themselves with confidence, explore their identity, and experience the dignity and belonging every person deserves. Thanks to generous community donations and partnerships, this innovative program continues to remove barriers while empowering youth to show up as their authentic selves. We are thrilled that The Qloset is already making a meaningful impact at our Antelope Valley Family Center and look forward to expanding this important resource to our Commerce office in the near future.
If you joined us at EDGY, we invite you to watch the video again and help us spread the word. If you weren't able to attend, we hope you'll take a few minutes to learn more about this incredible program and share it with your networks. Together, we can ensure more young people know there is a place where they will always be welcomed, affirmed, and celebrated—because everyone deserves to feel like they belong. 🌈
