Full Spectrum Community Outreach GoFundMe for new LGBTQIA+ Center in Mahoning Valley

from Tim Bortner, CEO/Founder of Full Spectrum Community Outreach

We have great news from Full Spectrum Community Outreach. We are in the process of purchasing a new space for Our LGBTQIA+ Center in Mahoning Valley/Youngstown OH. This space comes with a separate property that will be turned into the valley's first LGBTQIA+ transitional homeless shelter. Currently, the closest friendly shelter is over 40 miles away. The wait lists are long, and if you grew up in the valley, you're forced to either leave or go to a shelter that does not support you. The center receives more than 5 calls a month from clients needing housing support, and sadly we have no 100% safe place to send them. That will change once this space is purchased.

We will continue to provide the following at the center property:

• Free Monthly Peer Support Groups for Youth & Adults
• Non-perishable food, clothing, toiletries, & shower access available for those in need
• LGBTQIA+ Inclusion trainings for area businesses, organizations, schools, first responders, etc.
• "Closet of Change": chest binders, wigs, makeup, and accessories to assist with gender exploration and expression
• Social & community events, including Pride in the Valley planning
• Providing Free HIV testing and PrEP services
• Advocate for policy change
• Case management/referrals as needed for homelessness, medical services, counseling, domestic violence, substance abuse, and more

We have currently raised a little over $25,000 in donations from the community. Also, have a $20,000 grant from a local foundation and only need $35,000 more to purchase the property. The other $15,000 will go towards repairs and upgrades.

Full Spectrum Community Outreach is a registered 501(c)(3): 81-2650919 Non-Profit.

I would personally like to ask you to consider donating to our cause.

We created a GoFundMe page to raise funds: https://www.gofundme.com/f/opening-lgbtqia-center-and-shelter

I personally want to thank you in advance for your contribution to this cause and supporting us over the years. Every cent helps!

For more information about Full Spectrum Community Outreach please visit: www.fullspectrumcommunityoutreach.org