The Center Orlando

About The Center Orlando

For nearly five decades, The Center Orlando has been a cornerstone of hope, healing, and empowerment in Orlando, FL, serving as a vital resource for the LGBT community and its allies. Founded in 1978 as Gay Community Services, the organization emerged from a fundamental need—to create safe spaces where the LGBT community could gather, connect, and access quality, non-judgmental information and support. What began as a grassroots movement has evolved into a comprehensive community organization that touches thousands of lives annually through advocacy, education, information, and unwavering support. The Center Orlando's history is marked by resilience and growth, from its humble beginnings with the Gay Men's Hotline to becoming a multi-location organization with deep roots throughout Central Florida. The organization gained national recognition following the 2016 Pulse tragedy, when President Obama called The Center Orlando Ground Zero for community healing. This moment solidified the organization's role as a beacon of hope during the community's darkest hour. Today, The Center Orlando operates from multiple locations in Orlando and maintains a deep commitment to creating a culture of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging. The organization's staff is highly sensitized to the issues affecting the LGBT community and works actively to advance visibility, rights, and justice. Whether through health services, mental health support, youth programs, or community assistance, The Center Orlando remains dedicated to the belief that every LGBT individual and ally deserves dignity, acceptance, and access to comprehensive support services.

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