By any measure, Encircle’s model has worked — more than 10,000 guests visit each Encircle home every year. With counseling services, music nights, community service projects, and other bonding activities, Encircle has been a crucial lifeline to young people facing isolation or depression.
Luckily for the Toelupes, Encircle opened a house in Provo in 2017, just 20 minutes from their home. And while there were some local resources for young LGBTQ+ people, few had such a profound impact on their family and neighbors across Utah County.
When the Toelupes first told their daughter about Encircle, Khristian was on her mission in the Philippines. When she returned home, she found a support system unlike anything she could’ve imagined — and a community that accepted and supported her for who she is.
“I was just bawling,” Khristian says. “I thought, ‘Wow, I didn’t think that I could feel all this love at once.’ Every time that I go to Encircle it’s time that I can actually breathe. I can just be — without having to worry about opinions or my own safety.”
Encircle’s mission is not only to serve families but also be a great neighbor and community member. The nonprofit has helped foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for a diversity of experiences and identities. According to Micah, it isn’t uncommon for students to drive hours at a time just to spend a little while at an Encircle house.
“Encircle had this snowball effect,” Micah says. “I started going and it saved my life, and then my counselors at my school found out about it. It was saving other kids’ lives. The Friendship Circles grew from two people in the first group to 20 kids in the room.”
Not everyone who visits has the support of their family, but Encircle’s focus on welcoming everyone has made it a lifeline for LGBTQ+ youth with a range of experiences. Savannah Harman interned at Encircle’s Salt Lake City house, where Friendship Circles and other community-building activities helped her find supportive friends from all walks of life.
“I found a lovely chosen family,” Savannah says. “Because Encircle is family oriented, it allows space for you even if you don’t bring your family. You will find your family there.”
