Happy June, all! In honor of pride month, I thought I’d introduce you to The Center, the LGBT+ community center in New York City. I am so lucky to live in the bubble that is NYC, and I know full well not everyone is that fortunate. The Center is set up to “provide empowering services to the LGBT community,” and the list of ways in which they support this community is long and varied. They provide access to mental health and trauma counseling, offer free assistance navigating health insurance options, they provide referrals to legal services, connections to housing assistance, relationship counseling, HIV testing and assistance, survivor services, substance abuse support, career guidance (including resume help, interview prep, and safe escort to job interviews), housing support, youth support, social programs, and tons of other programs I can’t think of right now, all while fostering a sense of belonging. As long as you are there to be respectful, the minute you walk through the door, you know you are welcome.

The Center acts as chosen family for those who need it, and at a time when the world seems so hostile and fraught with peril, I can’t imagine a better message.

There have always been LGBTQIA+ folks who struggle. It’s not an easy path, and not one people choose lightly. And recently, with the current administration’s attacks on trans people and threats to same sex marriage and families, it’s only gotten worse. During this time of added stress, support from our community is more important than ever. Thankfully, there are still some outstanding organizations to which we can turn, and The Center is a shining example.

You can follow The Center on their website and on YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.