OutCenter Southwest Michigan

Mission:

OutCenter’s core mission is to build thriving, local LGBTQ+ communities in Southwest Michigan through advocacy, education, social events, and programs while providing expert guidance and support on equity and inclusion to area agencies, organizations, and municipalities. 

OutCenter’s vision is a local, thriving area where LGBTQ+ people thrive with connected and authentic lives.

OutCenter values include: living powerfully, promoting equity, continuing to grow our expertise and voice, and building community.

The OutCenter is an agile, dynamic and very effective 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The organization was established in 2003 by LGBTQ+ community members first as a YWCA program, then became an independent 501(c)(3) organization in 2010. The organization has received awards and recognition through the years from local and statewide groups for advocacy initiatives and program precedents. It is governed by a diverse twelve-member Board of Directors. The OutCenter is a member in good standing with CenterLink, The Community of LGBT Centers, a 501(c)(3) national organization developing strong, sustainable LGBT community centers and building a thriving center network of more than 200 centers that creates healthy, vibrant communities.

Programs and services provide support and guidance, strategic partnerships help move key systems toward equity, and community organizing builds diverse, inclusive and equitable communities – for everyone.

Education efforts help people and organizations create communities and services that care for everyone equitably via workshops, guidance, and presentations. Engagement with advocacy efforts at the local, regional and state levels  help establish a fully inclusive Southwest Michigan.

Support programs and services for LGBTQ+ people and their families:

• LGBTQ+ Safe Schools Collaborative: Provides area school districts and communities develop and practice inclusive and equitable school-based policies.
• LGBTQ+ Competent Health Care Project: Provides area healthcare systems and practitioners put in place and practice inclusive and equitable health care.
• Teen Pride GSA Guidance to schools: Supports the development of LGBTQ+ student led student clubs within their school communities.
• Advocacy: Provides resources and guidance to area municipalities, institutions, nonprofits, and families.
• Education: Convenes subject matter experts on a variety of important topics to educate a growing number of area residents, increase empathy and civility, and create safe, supportive and healthy communities across Southwest Michigan.
• Referrals: Provides vetted contacts to community members in search of doctors, schools, faith communities, and other services and resources.