The Junior League of Syracuse is celebrating its centennial year by kicking off 11 projects with other non-profit partners. 

They kicked off the project series Saturday by working with the Rescue Mission to paint and renovate an emergency shelter for runaway and homeless LGBTQ youth. 

The Rescue Mission says they're grateful for the opportunity to fill a need in the Syracuse community. 

"A lot of children who find themselves homeless do identify as LGBTQ, so having a space where they can feel safe to be themselves, to be affirmed, to be accepted and loved is really, really important for both their development and keeping them safe," said Tori Shires, chief development officer for the Rescue Mission.

The Rescue Mission said while the home will focus on LGBTQ youth, it will open to all children ages 12 to 17. They plan to open the doors in the Spring.