OutCenter Southwest Michigan
Changing hearts, minds, and policies.
Our mission is to advocate for change and provide community to LGBTQ+ persons, their allies, and their families in Southwest Michigan. We do this through advocacy efforts, support services, and community-building programs. We also pursue systems change initiatives, working in partnership with area-wide systems to ensure that LGBTQ+ people receive equitable services within their communities.
Education
We believe that education is part of advocacy. We work with systems throughout Berrien, Van Buren, and Cass counties to educate others about the LGBTQ+ community. We offer advocacy through education in large civic spheres, one-on-one meetings with leaders and elected officials, as well as with individuals and families. We educate and advocate for the lives of rural communities, LGBTQ+ people, and LGBTQ+ resource centers in national settings.
Empathy
We provide support, social, and discussion groups that aim to foster a safe and welcoming space for the LGBTQ+ community, in all of our diversity. We foster dialogue between community leaders, families, and organizations. All of our programs work together to promote social justice, intersectionality, equality, and acceptance.
Equity
We aim to have or promote programming that uplifts, values, and includes the voices of all LGBTQ+ people in our service area. Through our support and social programming, we aim to provide resources and support for individuals to live their most authentic selves, live their life full of purpose, and bring equity, diversity, and inclusion into every aspect of their lives. We promote inclusion for rural LGBTQ+ centers and people in the national dialogue.
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