Join the cause by volunteering at LGBTQ+ groups that are dedicated to helping and empowering the community in Singapore.
As a society, Singapore is still very conservative when it comes to LGBTQ+ rights. Even with the repeal of 377A, we’ve still got a long way to go. With that said, safe and inclusive spaces do exist in Singapore. We’ve got LGBTQ+ organisations and support groups in Singapore doing great work for the queer community. Whether you’re a straight ally or part of the LGBTQ+ crowd, help them continue their vital work by lending a hand.
LBGTQ+ organisations and support groups in Singapore
1. Rainbodhi Singapore
For anyone struggling between sexuality and religion, take a deep breath because we’ve got you. Rainbodhi Singapore is a spiritual support group for Buddhists that fall under the LGBTQ+ community. It believes in and advocates for inclusion and diversity in the broader Buddhist community. The team holds regular temple tours, picnics, and Zoom sessions that help queer-affirming Buddhists get acquainted with the triple gem.
Rainbodhi Singapore
2. Young Out Here
Young Out Here was created in 2006 due to the inadequate support and focus for youths (16 to 21 years old) in the LGBT community. Today, it’s the longest-running non-profit volunteer community group in Singapore. The Instagram page is filled with interesting articles and stories surrounding lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, gender non-conforming and questioning youth.
Young Out Here
3. Aces Going Places
Are you on the asexual and aromantic spectrum in Singapore? Looking to make friends with others? Join Aces Going Places, a forum for the asexual spectrum including greysexuals and demisexuals. Unsure if you fall on the spectrum? Feel free to join the group for sharing sessions. They hold regular meetings across the city.
Aces Going Places
4. Queer Book and Movie Club (Singapore)
Interested in queer literature and movies? Discuss your current faves with members of this monthly book club. They meet up every third Thursday of the month to chat about books based on these categories: gay, lesbian and transgender, bisexual, intersexual and queer novels. LGBTQ movies are also shared every two months. This all-inclusive and non-discriminatory group welcomes everyone regardless of sexuality, gender and sex.
Queer Book and Movie Club (Singapore)
5. The T Project
This is Singapore’s first and only social service that meets the needs of the transgender community. The T Project runs a shelter for transgendered individuals and a community centre. Its Alicia Community Centre caters to the LGBTQ community with counselling and trans reading resources. To learn more, visit its exhibition spotlighting the history of the transgender community in Singapore. Want to get involved? Reach out to the project or donate food, which will help the team with food ration distribution.
The T Project, #03-01, 7, Race Course Lane, Singapore 218734; entry by invitation only
6. Oogachaga
Oogachaga is a non-profit organisation that works closely with the LGBTQ+ community in Singapore. From offering counselling services to organising outreach programmes (such as support groups and workshops) to developing information resources for the queer community, there are plenty of opportunities for you to help. Just check out the site for volunteer openings.
Oogachaga, 57B Pagoda Street, Singapore 059216
7. Pink Dot
If you’re a big believer that love is love, join this non-profit movement that supports the LGBTQ community. The annual event has grown from strength to strength over the years. It’s become one of the biggest events to watch out for in Singapore, and extra pairs of helping hands are always in need to spread the message of acceptance.
Pink Dot
8. The Purple Alliance
The Purple Alliance is a safe space that supports the welfare of LGBTQA individuals. It empowers them to share stories and provides them with the necessary resources. It’s all about promoting acceptance and increasing the understanding of the communities. Visit the Facebook page for updates on community research, HIV self-testing and more.
The Purple Alliance
9. Prout
Looking to network with other people from the LGBTQ+ community? Enter Prout. It’s a virtual safe space where you can connect with like-minded people, get updates on queer events and news, access resources, and receive support from experts and community leaders. That’s not all. You can also create your LGBTQ-friendly event and submit it to its Telegram channel, too.
Prout
10. TransBeFrienders
Founded in 2019 by a group of transgender professionals from all walks of life, TransBeFrienders offer peer support services for trans youths in Singapore through two platforms. Got questions about gender identity or gender dysmorphia? The Befriending programme provides personalised informational sessions and emotional support with a buddy.
For transgender and gender non-conforming students who need support in education, there’s the Study Support Scheme. It offers a safe space for learning, including mentorship with certified educators, individualised learning plans and subsidised exam fees. You’re more than welcome to sponsor study materials, make monetary contributions or volunteer.
TransBeFrienders, 7 Race Course Lane, Level 3, Alicia Community Centre, Singapore 218734; entry by invitation only
11. Sayoni
Sayoni’s mission is to empower queer women. That includes lesbian, bisexual and transgender individuals. The Singapore-based feminist, volunteer-run organisation holds events to build a safe community and conduct research to support its advocacy work. Sign up as a volunteer and help the team out in copywriting, event organisation and academic research. Or you can donate to fund their work.
Sayoni
12. Pelangi Pride Centre
Everyone is welcome at Pelangi Pride Centre – straight allies and fellow LGBTQ+ members alike. Operating since 2003, this volunteer-run space acts as a resource centre. Its library is home to an extensive collection of queer literature and HIV-related materials. If you happen to have a book of LGBTQ+ interest, do consider donating it to them.
Pelangi Pride Centre, #02-02, One Commonwealth, 1 Commonwealth Lane, Singapore 149544
13. The Unicorn Library by Heckin’ Unicorn
Representation matters. While positive LGBTQ+ characters are rarely portrayed in local media, we can turn to books. Brought you by queer brand Heckin’ Unicorn, The Unicorn Library is Singapore’s free LGBTQ+ library! Providing a range of gay literature, from graphic novels and non-fiction to young adult and romance, they’re all available for online borrowing. Got a queer book or a book written by a queer author? Feel free to donate it. Also, check out its retail store for cute themed pins, notebooks and socks.
The Unicorn Library by Heckin’ Unicorn, available online
Lend a hand to these LGBTQ+ organisations and support groups in Singapore that are doing good for the queer community.
[This article was originally published in 2022 and updated in 2023 by Ashe Liao.]
