Sunrise

Building radical hope. Cultivating resilience. Shaping the future.

Sunrise Updates: Fall 2025

Check out this video for the latest updates about dreams, plans, and renovations at Sunrise!

Something really exciting is happening!

At Sunrise, Outright’s permanent camp and retreat space for LGBTQ+ youth, we’re building a home for healing, adventure, and belonging.

We’re building a place where young people can breathe deep, be themselves, relax, and discover queer joy!

We’re building a place where LGBTQ+ youth can rest, play, and connect with nature, surrounded by people who see and celebrate them for exactly who they are. Heck Yeah!!

Since the Rainbow Revamp community engagement campaign in 2024, Sunrise has seen exciting progress and updates! During the two-month engagement campaign brought together youth, neighbors, and community partners to dream boldly about the future of Sunrise by imagining spaces that are welcoming, accessible, and full of queer joy.

This graphic recording below reflects what we heard from participants.

It was a lot of fun! Plus, the ideas and stories shared directly informed our architectural and design plans, guiding renovations, new structures, and programs that reflect the needs and aspirations of LGBTQ+ youth and the broader community.

From planning accessible pathways and updated cabins to designing new gathering spaces and a low-impact bathhouse, Sunrise is evolving in ways that honor its history while creating a vibrant, inclusive future.

Since then, we’ve been laying the groundwork (literally and figuratively). The Historic Preservation arm of the State of Vermont has officially approved our renovation and building plans, confirming that our architectural vision honors the land’s history while opening the door to a vibrant new chapter. Next up: the Act 250 permitting process, a major milestone toward building in 2026!

Here's What's Next

We’ve rolled up our sleeves and turned big dreams into plans on paper. Here’s what’s on the horizon for 2026:

A brand-new gathering space for meals, dances, and late-night laughter.
Accessible pathways to make every corner of Sunrise open to all.
Updated cabins with breezeways, cozy bunks, and screened porches for both quiet reflection and campfire fun.
A two-story bathhouse and community room, designed for low environmental impact and high community comfort.

Each design choice centers queer and trans youth, ensuring that every structure, every path, and every view feels like it belongs to them.

Sunrise will be a place for program expansion in Central Vermont, allowing Outright to offer new opportunities, leadership programs, and the outdoors while continuing our existing, critical youth programming statewide.

Check Out the Plans Below!

Conserving Land and Making Memories!

Thanks to the support of the Vermont Housing and Conservation Board and the Vermont Land Trust, Sunrise’s land is forever protected for community use.

And community gatherings and events on the land are underway!

Over 100 LGBTQ+ and allied youth danced the night away at the 2024 Prom event.
We've held multiple retreats for staff and partners, all enjoying the incredible views, space, and land.
Nearly 30 people gathered for our Cider Celebration at Sunrise that included families, neighbors, and even two former campers returned to the land that holds so many memories. It was a joyful, laughter-filled day of warm cider, connection, and shared stories.
Our Gender Creative Kids enjoyed a Fall day, connecting and revelling in nature.

Stay Connected.

We're incredibly thankful for your enthusiasm and support! Here are four ways you can support LGBTQ+ youth and Outright:

Stay informed. Sign up for our email list to receive regular updates and engagement opportunities. Additionally, following us on social media.
Write a letter-to-the editor. Being a visible and vocal supporter is a powerful way to educate our neighbors about the importance of Outright mission and programs.
Make a donation today. The needs for supporting LGBTQ+ youth have increased across the board and we have expanded many of our programs as a result. With your donation today, you will help the LGBTQ+ youth we work alongside and our ability to reach more youth.
Volunteer. When you volunteer with Outright, your impact is life-changing! Plus, you will join a community of passionate supporters who believe in the power of love, joy, and glitter! Volunteer today!