Free Rein Celebrates Growth and Diversity in its First Year

June 2002

A unique and groundbreaking organization for teenagers has been successfully operating for a year in the Michiana area. Peter Ashbaugh, originally from Elkhart, created the opportunity for teens to utilize the internet to create supportive networks and an opportunity to express themselves in a unique forum.

As a 17-year old gay man, Ashbaugh realized that local young people needed a safe venue for creating friendships, exploring important life issues and expressing themselves artistically. During his high school career, he found it difficult to connect in his local community. He networked and started the organization Free Rein, an online forum and social group. Peter explains Free Rein's success: "[o]ne of the reasons I see that it has been so successful is because we maintain some levels of appropriateness. Let's face it, if a youth is just looking to take advantage of all the liberties the internet provides, he or she can. Free Rein is about having the freedom to be real, to be goofy, to get serious and express yourself."

At first Free Rein began with connections established through United Gay and Lesbian Youth, which at the time had stopped coordinating events due to lack of interest. Although Free Rein is a fully separate organization, UGLY was able to provide its resources and link to its site so Free Rein could establish its initial traffic. Through word of mouth, Free Rein grew. Free Rein is now celebrating over 772,997 hits. However, Peter says that in any given month there are between 20-25 active participants. In addition, through the request of its participants, Free Rein hosts regular social gatherings.

Free Rein hasn't been without controversy or challenges. In this last year, it has dealt with teen runaways, youth harassment in schools, and technical issues. Throughout the controversy, however, Free Rein's mission has supported its growth. Free Rein was born out of the idea that young adults age 23 and under, who identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, questioning, and supportive-of could have access to and create their own community. Through this, Free Rein aims to assure that youth in our community have an opportunity to express their creativity, identity, and perspective, regardless of sexual orientation, race, gender, or creed.

New possibilities are on the horizon for Free Rein in its second year. There are several adults who have offered to support Free Rein in pursuing other avenues to provide value for this community. Peter says, "I'm always open to suggestions and resources to expand what Free Rein has to offer." Youth of all backgrounds are invited to check out the site and realize the benefits of understanding and communication that the organization provides. The network is growing, valuable, influential, and has even proved lifesaving on some level.

Look for what's exciting and next for Free Rein in its second year.