The development of a helping community for lesbians and gay men: A case study in community psychology

The neglect by community psychologists of the life concerns and problems of lesbians, gay men, and their families is discussed, with an emphasis on the lost opportunities that collaborative efforts can produce. The power of community psychology strategies is illustrated by a case description of efforts to encourage informal helping resources in a rural community. Informal helping resources were developed for lesbians, gay men, and students at a major university in the community. An anonymous telephone help-system was also organized. Community psychologists are urged to pursue collaborative efforts with lesbians and gay men in their own localities.