Compton's Table (45 Articles with 35,553 total views)
In 1966 at Compton's Cafeteria, gender-expansive people responded to the hostility they were subjected to, simply because they existed, with an act of resistance. In solidarity, today, Compton's Table serves as a place where queer youth and young adults can find community and resist marginalization. Our mission is to eliminate systemic inequity, create community through peer connection, and empower queer youth and young adults to be agents of change. Together with the individuals and communities we serve, Compton's Table works to create a thriving LGBTQIAA community.
June, 2025
Erie Community Protests UPMC Youth Healthcare Denial
On April 3, 2025, on the corner of State and 2nd Street, the Erie community convened to protest UPMC's decision to stop providing gender affirming care to trans and gender-expansive youth after an executive order prohibiting such treatment.
Glow Wild Zoo Trip for Chat and Chill Under 18
Compton's Table is taking their Under 18 Chat and Chill to see the Erie Zoo's Glow Wild exhibit on June 8, 2025 from 6:30-8:30! Participants will be treated to pizza, snacks, and soda while exploring the Glow Wild Chinese Lantern Festival's beautiful handcrafted lanterns inspired by zoo animals. If you know a queer youth (13-17) who might be interested, please visit this link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSebUT6A7lnCn33CgxxRf8VYnSvZfCfpfyqZ5aL2bEo-CYmI0Q/viewform?usp=dialog
April, 2025
Call To Action - Trans Youth Deserve Health Care Rally in Erie this Thursday!
This Thursday, April 3, at 7 PM, please join local advocates at State & 3rd in Erie, PA, in solidarity to call on UPMC Children's Hospital to stop targeting trans youth. For more information, please contact the local organizer, Compton's Table, at info@comptonstable.org. From TransYOUniting: UPMC has decided to begin denying gender affirming medical healthcare for new minor patients at Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh (CHP). If we don't push back at this now, other healthcare providers may follow, and our public officials may remain silent. This is an emergency that we must respond to. These rallies across Pennsylvania will demonstrate public support for young trans Pennsylvanians.
Compton's Table Awarded Grant from Erie Community Foundation's LGBTQ+ Fund
Compton's Table, a local nonprofit dedicated to supporting LGBTQ+ youth, has been awarded a grant from the Erie Community Foundation LGBT Fund. This funding will enhance the organization's True North program, strengthen its formal teaching initiative, and aid in the development of a new hybrid program to provide support in schools.
March, 2025
Compton's Table Leaves Meta Platforms Over Safety Concerns
Compton's Table has announced their departure from Meta-owned platforms (Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp). The organization cites growing concerns over safety, algorithmic bias, and the unchecked spread of harmful content targeting the queer and trans community as key reasons for the decision.
February, 2025
Compton's True North Program Looking for Applicants
Compton's Table provides a host of programs aimed to help the queer community in Erie County thrive. True North: Empowering Queer Youth for Independence is one of the programs offered to help young people integrate successfully into adulthood. Created and facilitated by the Compton's Table Board, True North aims to provide young queer people with the foundational skills to enter and succeed in adulthood. The program is divided into 4 two hour-long sessions that run over a 4 week period.
It's True North Time! Seats open for upcoming cohort!
Compton's Table has another cohort of their True Noth program about to launch and have some seat still open. This cohort is for those who are 18 yrs old or older. We will meet for four consecutive Tuesdays and those who complete all four classes receive a gift card at the end. Our first meeting is this coming Tuesday (1/14/2024) from 6:00pm - 8:00pm located at 3104 State Street, Erie. We are asking all interested participants to please register by clicking HERE. Sessions are from 6 to 8 PM. Cohorts meet for four consecutive weeks. Topics covered include budgeting, finding and maintaining housing, self-care, career development, self-advocacy, networking and social skills, and more. The program is free for participants thanks to the LGBT funds of the Erie Community Foundation.
LGBT Fund of Erie Community Foundation Grant to Compton's Table
The LGBT Fund of The Erie Community Foundation has awarded a $7,500 grant to Compton's Table, supporting the organization's transformative True North and Chat n Chill programs. The initiatives, designed to create an affirming environment for LGBTQ+ youth in northwestern Pennsylvania, align with the LGBT Fund's vision for a united, vibrant, and thriving community for LGBTQ+ individuals in the Erie region.
January, 2025
Compton's Table: End-of-Year Giving
This year, Compton's Table celebrated the graduation of three cohorts from our True North program, generously supported by the Erie Community Foundation. Our Chat n Chills continue to foster a warm, inclusive environment for connection and support, while our Open Mic nights showcase and uplift the incredible talents of local queer artists. June we hosted our 40 Shades of Purple Fundraising Event which pulled together over 130 individuals to celebrate founder Tyler Titus' 40th birthday and all that Compton's has accomplished.
December, 2024
Compton's Table Chat & Chill
This month marks the return of one of Compton's Table's signature programs, Chat & Chill, a twice-monthly, loosely structured gathering featuring themed activities and conversations. Adults 18 and older meet the first Thursday evening of every month; youth aged 13-17 meet the second Thursday evening of every month. For more information or to register to attend next month’s Chat & Chill, visit www.comptonstable.org.
Compton's Table Hosts Post-Election Gathering to Support Queer Community
On November 6th, as the nation absorbed the results of an election marked by over $20 million spent on anti-trans ads, Compton's Table opened its doors to the local queer community. The gathering provided a space for understanding, processing, and coming together during a time when many are feeling the weight of fear and uncertainty.
November, 2024
Chat & Chill Returns to Compton's Table on November 7
It's happening! Chat & Chill is officially BACK at Compton's Table, 3104 State Street, Erie PA, and better than ever. 18+ groups are every first Thursday of each month from 6-8 pm. Each month will have a different theme to keep the conversation going. November's theme is centered all around YOU and caring for yourself. We'll share some tips and ways to explore and care for yourself through journaling. November's meeting will be on Thursday the 7th from 6-8 pm. Registration required at https://comptonstable.org/chatnchill
Stitch And B*tch At Compton's Table
You're reading that right! By popular demand, Compton's Table is starting a STITCH AND B*TCH! This group will meet at Compton's Table, 3104 State St, Erie, PA, bi-weekly on Wednesdays, beginning on November 13th. Bring your knitting needles, crochet projects, yarn, or whatever you're working on at the moment, and come hang out with us. This event is bring your own materials, and we encourage you to bring anything extra you may have to share with the group!
October, 2024
3rd Annual Macy's and Compton's Table Back To School
On Sunday, August 25th, Macy's teamed up with Compton's Table for a back-to-school bash that was anything but basic. Thirteen queer youth and young adults strutted through the aisles, handpicking gender-affirming clothing, accessories, and school supplies that screamed, "This is me!" And the best part? The entire store was theirs.
September, 2024
Compton's Table Launches Mural Project
On July 31st, Compton's Table hosted a mural planning event that brought together over a dozen queer youth and young adults, dedicated board members, and two enthusiastic community volunteers. The gathering focused on mapping out a revamp design for Compton's Closet, a crucial service that Compton's Table is eager to reopen.
August, 2024
A Night of Celebration and Support: "40 Shades of Purple"
On June 21st, Compton's Table celebrated with a vibrant gathering at the "40 Shades of Purple" event, marking the 40th birthday of our founder. This special evening brought together over 130 attendees, including community members, supporters, and advocates, all united in our mission to empower queer youth and young adults.
Compton's Table Back To School
As Erie Gay News was going to press, the annual Compton's Table and Macy's Back to School dates had not been finalized. Sources indicated that it will most likely be the third week in August. After confirming the dates, Compton's Table will have more information on its website and social media pages. This event helps get Erie queer students to get free backpacks with school supplies and gently used clothing. Also, Macy's will open its doors to Compton's Table for the third year and welcome selected youth to a private shopping event with store credit! You read that right - free clothes & private shopping event!
Compton's Table Starting Another True North Cohort
Compton's Table is starting another True North cohort beginning September 3 for four consecutive Tuesdays from 6-8 pm. True North is a program for young queer people who are building up their independence. It is entirely free! Register at https://comptonstable.org/truenorth
May, 2024
Compton's Table Name Change Clinic on 4/13
On April 13, Compton's Table hosted the first ever "Hello My Name Is" Name Change Clinic. There were over 30 people in attendance to receive information regarding how to legally change their name in Erie County. Attorney Seth Trott of Quinn Law Firm gave a presentation detailing the entire process, and he volunteered his time to represent 10 participants in obtaining their legal name change. At the name change clinic, Compton's board members aided in completing all the necessary paperwork for 10 participants to get started on their name change. Compton's Table eagerly looks forward to planning another event like this in the future, as this one was a major success and had a lot of community interest.
Queer Spaces Survey
Compton's Table is looking to update our well-used resource, the Safe Space list. We are sending out an anonymous survey where community members can detail workplaces, social spaces, and housing spaces where they have had positive or negative experiences. Several people in the community come to Compton's seeking resources, and we want to have the most up to date information for them. The list of safe spaces will be posted on the Compton's Table website and updated regularly. Find the list and check out all Compton's Table offers at www.comptonstable.org. Take the survey at https://www.qrfy.com/kJbYiOvgYP
April, 2024
Compton's Table Name Change Clinic on April 13
Compton's Table is partnering with Atty Seth Trott from Quinn Law Firm to provide a free Name Change Clinic on April 13, 2024, from 1:30 to 3:30 PM at 3104 State Street, Erie, PA. Attendees will learn how to navigate the name change process. Compton's can cover the costs for 10 participants' name change fees. We know not everybody is ready to go through the legal process, so we encourage those interested in learning to attend. Registration is required for the event. Registration does not guarantee you will be one of the ten to have your legal process covered.
February, 2024
Annual Grant Awarded to Compton's Table
After a record number of applications and on the recommendation of its Grants Committee, the LGBT Funds Advisory Board selected Compton's Table as this year's recipient of the Funds' annual grant.
January, 2024
Compton's Table - Cookies & Queen
On Saturday, December 16th, Compton's Table held its inaugural holiday social and fundraiser, Cookies and Queen. Guests gathered at the Compton's Table studio to enjoy cookies, hot cocoa, make-your-own ornament crafts, and an exceptional performance and reading by local drag artist and reigning Miss Erie Shea D'Heaux. This family-friendly event was designed to bring together members of the queer community and their loved ones for the festive season. "We realize that for many in the LGBTQ+ community, the holidays can be a challenging time," said Compton's Table board secretary Christina Salvia. "We wanted to host a holiday event that felt safe, inclusive, and fun for all, and to that end, I think we succeeded." Approximately 25 guests attended Cookies and Queen, which Compton's Table hopes will be only the first event of its kind. "Making connections and building community are two of our primary goals," Salvia said. "We hope to incorporate many more fun, family-friendly events like these into our programming in the future."
Compton's Table Rolls Out New Independent Living Program
True North: Compton's Table is very excited to announce the rollout of our new ILP (independent living program) beginning in January 2024. The program, True North, is an 8-week program tailored to the specific needs of queer youth and young adults (16-21 yrs old) in our region. Key components of True North include financial literacy, finding and maintaining housing, self-care and mental health, career development, legal rights & advocacy, cooking & nutrition, networking & social skills, and more! True North is a free program, thanks to the LGBT Funds of the Erie Community Foundation, and you can register at www.comptonstable.org. For any questions, email info@comptonstable.org.
December, 2023
Compton's Table Hosts Book Fair with Werner Books
On October 19-21, Compton's Table held a book fair at their studio in collaboration with local bookshop Werner Books. The owners and staff at Werner Books curated a thoughtful selection of titles centering queer voices and experiences, including many books that have been challenged or banned from schools and public libraries. The event also included a special family-friendly story hour featuring local drag artist Alysin Wonderland.
September, 2023
Community Spotlight #9: Compton's Table
Compton's Table, with its mission to foster a sustainable and affirming environment, has swiftly become a beacon of hope and community for queer youth and young adults in Erie County. Compton's Table was founded in response to the deeply concerning rates of suicide among queer youth in the United States, spurring founder and queer rights advocate, Dr. Tyler Titus, into action.
Compton's Table Back to School True Style
On Sunday, August 20th, Compton's Table hosted its second-annual Back to School Shopping Spree and School Supply Giveaway. For the first event co-sponsored by Macy's at the Millcreek Mall, queer youth nominees were invited on a private $250 shopping spree at Macy's. There, they could shop for gender-affirming clothing, accessories, and grooming products in a safe, supportive environment, plus take advantage of the Macy's team's expert style advice. Then, Compton's Table opened its doors to the community, distributing backpacks, school supplies, and gently used clothes from their studio at Central Outreach Wellness Center. Following two successful years, this dual back to school giveaway has become one of Compton's Table's signature events.
August, 2023
Compton's Table and Macy's Partner for Back To School True Style on Aug 20
Compton’s Table, Inc is excited to offer an amazing opportunity made possible by our local Macy’s at Millcreek Mall. Macy’s and Compton’s knows that going back to school can be a huge stress point for queer youth and their families. We decided to join forces to do something about it!
April, 2023
Compton's Table presentation: Empowering LGBTQ+ Youth, through Jefferson Education Society - Free Program TONIGHT!
THURSDAY, MARCH 9 at 7 p.m. - Wren Genua and Christina Salvia, M.S. Compton's Table: Empowering LGBTQ+ Youth Erie Center for Arts & Technology (ECAT) - Erie, PA. Compton's Table, a local nonprofit, was launched in 2021 to combat social isolation that led to increased suicidality among LGBTQ+ youth. Learn from board members Wren Genua and Christina Salvia, who will present on the past, present, and future of Compton's Table.
Compton's Table Sweet Re-Lease Fundraising Event on Feb 19
On February 19th, Compton's Table hosted their Sweet Re-Lease fundraising event. The organization opened their doors to showcase the new space located next to Central Outreach. All funds raised went directly back into the programming and services offered at Compton's Table for queer youth between 21-24 yrs old. The primary sponsors for the event were Moxi Hair Salon, Central Outreach, and VooDoo Brewery. Attendees enjoyed a performance by Optimistic Apocalypse as they supported the mission of Compton's Table. Founder and Board Chair, Dr. Tyler Titus (they/them), said, "We are incredibly grateful for the support we have received from the community. We could not do the work we do without those who contribute to Compton's so that we can create a safe, affirming space for our youth and young adults." Learn more at www.comptonstable.org
January, 2023
As I Am: An exhibition of work by LGBTQIA+ youth in Erie to run Jan 19-Feb 24, deadline to submit is Jan 13
Penn State Erie, the Behrend College and Compton's Table are proud to present As I Am, an exhibition of artwork made by youth in our local LGBTQIA+ community. The deadline to submit is Friday, January 13, and the show will run from January 19 to February 24.
Compton's Table Art Exhibit
Compton's Table is looking for young artists to display their work at an upcoming art exhibit titled "As I Am." Acceptable forms are digital, print, and canvas media. The show is open to students and those ages 10-25. Art will be collected beginning in December. The show will run from January- February at Penn State Behrend. There will be a gallery opening night. Specific dates and times are being determined as Erie Gay News goes to press. For any inquiries, please email info@comptonstable.org.
Opening reception for As I Am, An Exhibition of Work by LGBTQIA+ Youth in Erie on January 19
Penn State Erie, the Behrend College and Compton's Table are proud to present As I Am, an exhibition of artwork made by youth in our local LGBTQIA+ community. Please join us for an opening reception on Thursday, January 19 from 5-7pm in the upper hallway of the Kochel Center at Penn State Erie. The show will be visible from January 17 until February 24.
November, 2022
Compton’s Table Youth Study Night Mondays
Compton’s Table is holding youth study nights at their PACA studio, 1505 State St, Erie PA, on Mondays from 6-7:30 PM, They’ll be adding more nights soon. For details, folks can email info@comptonstable.org.
October, 2022
Going Back to School in Style
With the start of a new school year there is always a long list of supplies every student needs to have for their first day of classes. This week, with some help from the collaboration of many local entities, those lists seemed a bit more manageable for many LGBTQ+ youth in our area.
August, 2022
Back to School in True-Style August 21st
Back to School in True-Style: Compton’s Table is excited to offer a fantastic opportunity made possible by our local Macy’s at Millcreek Mall. On August 21st, Macy’s is opening their doors to Compton’s Table and selected youth for a private shopping event with store credit! You read that right - free clothes & private shopping event! If you know a youth or young adult who would benefit from this opportunity, please fill out the nomination form on our website, www.ComptonsTable.org
Compton's Table Drag-tastic Youth & Young Adult Event Aug 2
Compton's Table is hosting Drag-tastic Youth & Young Adult event at their new location, 1505 State St, Erie, PA. On Tuesday, August 2nd from 5-9 PM, you will learn how to build your drag character, design your costume, do your make-up, work the crowd, and put it all together on the stage for a drag show! This event is for queer youth 20 years & under to let loose in a safe, affirming space. Light snacks and refreshments will be provided. Allies can attend to support the performers. Masks will be required. Performers may take them off while on stage. Registration is a MUST even if you are not performing. Head over to www.ComptonsTable.org to sign up!
Compton’s Table New Home
Compton’s Table has a new home, PACA, 1505 State St, Erie, PA! We are building out this space to reach even more youth with AFFIRM, Compton’s Closet, and future programming. We will have an open house at the end of August and look forward to opening our doors for the community to come to check out what we have going on and what’s in store for the future. Be sure to follow our Facebook and Instagram pages for more updates!
June, 2022
Compton's Closet Second Location
Compton's Table will be opening a second location of Compton's Closet inside PACA, 1505 State St, Erie Pa - a free resource for queer youth and young adults that provides gender-affirming clothing, accessories, and hygiene products- in June. Stay tuned for our opening day by following us on Instagram @Comptons_Table, our Facebook page, or on our website www.ComptonsTable.org
October, 2021
Compton's Table offers AFFIRM - Queer Youth Support Group
Compton's Table has a new queer youth support group called AFFIRM. It is a CBT-based group to learn stress management and coping skills while connecting with other queer youth. There are two sets of online Zoom meetings being offered from September through November.
September, 2021
Compton's Table offers AFFIRM - Queer Youth Support Group
Compton's Table has a new queer youth support group called AFFIRM. It is a CBT-based group to learn stress management and coping skills while connecting with other queer youth. There are two sets of online Zoom meetings being offered from August through October.
April, 2021
Queer Youth Event on March 25 - Virtual Connect Chat & Chill
On Thursday, March 25 from 6:00-7:30 pm, Compton's Table, Greater Erie Alliance for Equality (GEAE) and Journey to a Trauma-Informed Life will be hosting a virtual connect for queer youth. Come join us for a night of community, laughter, and chill. No real agenda, just a safe, virtual space.
Queer Youth Events on Fourth Thursday of the Month - Virtual Connect Chat & Chill
On the fourth Thursday of each month, from 6:00-7:30 pm, Compton's Table, Greater Erie Alliance for Equality (GEAE) and Journey to a Trauma-Informed Life will be hosting a virtual connect for queer youth. Come join us for a night of community, laughter, and chill. No real agenda, just a safe, virtual space. The next two Teen Chat and Chill events will be on March 25 and April 22. Preregistration is required to ensure a safe, affirming environment.
March, 2021
Create Your Own Podcast - Queer Youth Event on Mar 9
Join us on March 9, 2021 from 6:00pm - 7:30pm as Dr. Jamie Muskopf (she/her) shows us the power within a podcast. Dr. Jamie is an experienced creator who will lend her skills in using technology and platform to empower and elevate our lived experiences! Register for this virtual event for queer youth at Compton's Table web site at https://comptonstable.org/
November, 2020
Compton's Table for Queer Youth
In 1966 at Compton's Cafeteria, gender-expansive people responded to the hostility they were subjected to, simply because they existed, with an act of resistance. In solidarity, today, Compton's Table serves as a place where queer youth and young adults can find community and resist marginalization. Our mission is to eliminate systemic inequity, create community through peer connection, and empower queer youth and young adults to be agents of change. Together with the individuals and communities we serve, Compton's Table works to create a thriving LGBTQIAA community.
Compton's Table
In 1966 at Compton's Cafeteria, gender-expansive people responded to the hostility they were subjected to, simply because they existed, with an act of resistance. In solidarity, today, Compton's Table serves as a place where queer youth and young adults can find community and resist marginalization. Our mission is to eliminate systemic inequity, create community through peer connection, and empower queer youth and young adults to be agents of change. Together with the individuals and communities we serve, Compton's Table works to create a thriving LGBTQIAA community.
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