Hillcrest Youth Center
In order to develop into successful and fully participating citizens, our youth need a safe, welcoming and affirming space where they can be themselves and access the resources they need. The Hillcrest Youth Center is the only drop-in and recreational center in San Diego County dedicated to the needs of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning and HIV+ (LGBTQ+) youth.
HYC offers programming for LGBTQ+ youth and allies, ages 14-18. You’ll find computer access, health education, basic financial education, youth leadership training, HIV prevention education, life skills training workshops, discussion groups, creative and performing arts programming, and amazing social activities. It's an impressive list of programs and services, and we are extremely proud of what we offer. But the heart of what the Hillcrest Youth Center offers is much larger than our excellent programs.
HYC is committed to providing a safe, affirming space for LGBTQ+ youth to be proud of who they are and the freedom to discover who they might become. We host approximately 300 visits from youth each month. They are 80% youth of color -- Latino, African-American, Asian and Pacific Islanders, Native American -- and 20% Anglo-American. They are youth from all over the county, representing almost every zip code. Some come from our most affluent homes, some are homeless. More than 70% are low-income and underserved.
For more information, contact the HYC coordinator at HYC@thecentersd.org or 619.497.2920 x101.
The Youth Center is located at: 
1807 Robinson Ave., Suite 106
San Diego, CA 92103
Hours of Operation:
Wednesday – Thursday, 5 pm-9 pm
Friday, 5 pm-10 pm
Youth Groups
All groups meet at the Hillcrest Youth Center. Group meeting times and days are subject to change. Please call ahead to make sure the group you're interested in is meeting. For more information on youth discussion groups, call 619.497.2920 x101, or email hyc@thecentersd.org.
HYC Media Workshop
Learn how to use cameras, practice interviewing people, work with lighting, and edit your own videos with the assistance of a facilitator.
Wednesdays, 6:30-9 pm
Coming Out/Being Out Group
Talk about what's on your mind.
Thursdays, 6:30 pm
Young Women's Group
A discussion group for female youth, 14-18 years old, who want to chat with other young women about relationships, school, work, family, friends and other topics of interest.
Fridays, 8:30-9:30 pm
Young Men's Group
A discussion group for male youth 14-18 years old covering relationships, school, work, friends, family and other topics of interest.
Fridays, 7:30-8:30 pm
Gender Identity Group @ HYC
A discussion and support group for transgender, gender non-conforming, and trans-questioning youth ages 14-18. The group is also open to youth who are interested in learning more about gender identity.
Fridays, 8-9 pm
