They’re here to help.

That’s the main message both the members and the sponsor of the Gay Straight Alliance want to get across.

The GSA, sponsored by counselor Nancy Kelso, is made up of about ten students. They meet on Wednesdays after school at the local community center.

Students talk, watch videos or news clips on topics concerning sexuality, and visit web sites that provide resources or support to teens. They also attend social events, such as meeting GSA students from other schools, which they did in November.

The club has been around for three years. French and Theory of Knowledge teacher Chad Lower was the sponsor until this year, when he handed it over to Kelso.

“No one was interested. Only a few people ever came,” Lower said, citing his explanation for ending his involvement with the group. “I think Ms. Kelso does a better job.”

According to Kelso, the GSA’s mission is to nurture a supportive environment in the Northtown community.

The GSA marched as a walking float in the Homecoming Parade, carrying a banner reading ‘It gets better’, a popular message to gay or questioning teens. They hope to participate in the National Day of Silence this spring. The Day of Silence, occurring on April 20, requests students to take a vow of silence to raise awareness of anti-LGBT bullying and harassment.

Senior Jalyn Dewer enjoys being a part of GSA.

“I love the fact that I can help people who don’t understand that people can be different, and help them be less close-minded,” she said. Dewer thinks GSA is important, because “there’s a lot of people in this world who don’t understand what it means to have a different sexuality, and that it’s not bad.” She added that GSA is a safe place where students can go without being judged.

Junior Christina Blake Meier likes GSA because she can get active in the gay community.

In Meier’s opinion, the club is significant “because it helps a lot of kids who are going through a rough time, and lets them know there are people to support them.”

Kelso, Dewer, and Meier all encourage students to join GSA.

“Anyone questioning or exploring their sexuality and who wants a safe place” should come, Kelso said. She stressed that GSA could be a place of support for those facing non-supportive family members. Even if students are intimidated because they think there is a stigma attached, they should try attending.

Dewer added, “We need more members. All you can do is come, have fun, and have serious discussions. We’re here if you need anyone else to talk to.”