A Vital Lifeline for LGBTQ+ Youth: 18 Years of Service at The Trevor Project

Content Warning: Points of Light is proud to share the following uplifting and inspiring story. However, we acknowledge that it may be difficult for some readers. We encourage you to please care for your own well-being above all.

Meet Daily Point of Light Award honoree Caroline Bird. Read her story, and nominate an outstanding volunteer or family as a Daily Point of Light.

For nearly two decades, Caroline Bird has provided strength, compassion and advocacy for LGBTQ+ youth through her volunteer work at The Trevor Project—which operates the largest suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization specifically for LGBTQ+ young people, offering 24/7 support through its phone, chat and text services.

Since January 1, 2006, she has served on the frontlines as a Trevor Lifeline volunteer, offering crisis counseling and emotional support to young people navigating some of the most vulnerable and critical moments in their lives. Her commitment has spanned hundreds of shifts, each one grounded in her belief that every young person deserves to be heard, supported and seen.

“Young people need and deserve to not only be listened to, but also to be heard,” Caroline shares. “Validation from an affirming adult significantly reduces risk of suicide. Many youth don’t get this in their immediate communities, but to know there is an enormous ‘chosen’—as opposed to biological— family who love and support these lonely and often isolated young people confirms that they matter, that their happiness matters and that there is a place for them in this world.”

Caroline’s role on the Lifeline goes far beyond answering calls. With empathy and clarity, she actively listens to youth in distress, helps de-escalate moments of crisis and gently guides callers toward safety and hope. “I cannot overemphasize the power of offering support and validation to somebody who is isolated, afraid, rejected, persecuted or closeted out of fear,” Caroline says. In each conversation, she embodies the core mission of The Trevor Project—affirming life and offering a sense of belonging to those who may feel alone. Her dedication has made her the longest-serving Lifeline volunteer in Trevor’s history, a testament to her enduring compassion and resilience.

“At risk of sounding terribly clichéd, my volunteer role at Trevor is genuinely the most rewarding work I’ve ever done. As the product of a stable and happy upbringing, I was able to provide the same to my (now adult) children but am very well aware that my family ‘norm’ is far from that of many of the youth who reach out to Trevor,” Caroline reflects. “To begin a call with a young person who cannot speak because they are frightened to do so, or are crying too hard, and to bring that same call to a conclusion having de-escalated risk, figured out a safety plan and often to have changed the very negative viewpoint that the caller had of themself and their place in the world… well, who wouldn’t be motivated by that kind of work? Yes, the conversations are difficult and sometimes draining but the rewards for me are immense.”

Caroline also serves on The Trevor Project’s Board of Directors, offering a crucial voice on behalf of the volunteer network. In this role, she ensures that the experiences, challenges and insights of frontline counselors are brought into the organization’s leadership conversations. Her dual service bridges the gap between direct support and high-level strategy, enhancing the effectiveness of Trevor’s mission on both individual and organizational levels.

Caroline’s ability to balance these two roles—both deeply human and deeply strategic—sets her apart as a changemaker. Whether she’s on a call helping a youth through a moment of crisis or in the boardroom shaping policy, her perspective is grounded in lived experience and authentic connection. This unique vantage point allows her to advocate for policies and resources that truly meet the needs of the LGBTQ+ young people she has spent years serving.

“Trevor’s resources are more vital than ever, given the current climate with increasing threats to the safety and liberties of LGBTQ+ young people,” Caroline says. “The organization strives to be the most trusted, reliable and comprehensive suicide prevention network for young LGBTQ+ people and will continue to do so.”

In every space she enters, Caroline leads with integrity and care. Her fellow volunteers and Trevor staff describe her as a calming presence, someone whose steady support and thoughtful mentorship lift others up. Her longevity with the organization has made her a source of continuity and wisdom—someone newer volunteers look to for guidance and inspiration. Through it all, she remains humble and focused on the people at the heart of the work.

Caroline’s contributions reflect a rare blend of heart and leadership. She doesn’t just answer calls—she changes lives. She doesn’t just sit in meetings—she amplifies voices. Her presence at The Trevor Project is one of deep commitment, tireless advocacy and profound love for the LGBTQ+ youth she serves. In every moment of connection, she offers something invaluable: the reminder that someone is listening, someone cares and someone believes in their tomorrow.

To LGBTQ+ youth, Caroline emphasizes: “The Trevor project exists because your place in the world, your safety and your happiness matters. You are loved by an enormous community, and you deserve to find peace and fulfillment as your true, authentic self. Stay strong, keep fighting and reach out to The Trevor Project because we are always here for you.”

Do you want to make a difference in your community like Caroline? Find local volunteer opportunities.

If you or a young person from the LGBTQ community who you know may be considering suicide, contact The Trevor Project at 1-866-488-7386 or text 678678 to talk to a trained crisis counselor. It’s anonymous, free and available 24/7.