Public & Non-Profit in Wilmington, NC

Founded in 2008 as the Frank Harr Foundation in honor of a lifelong advocate for cultural diversity and social justice, the LGBTQ Center of the Cape Fear Coast has evolved into a vital community resource serving Wilmington, NC and southeastern North Carolina. The organization was established by Ken Cox in memory of Frank Harr, his partner of 32 years, to continue Frank's passionate work addressing violence, social justice, and human rights education. In 2021, the Foundation rebranded as the LGBTQ Center of the Cape Fear Coast to increase visibility and accessibility for those seeking support. Today, the Center's mission centers on serving LGBTQ elders, youth, and everyone in between through advocacy, education, and community building. The organization responds to calls from lonely LGBTQ elders seeking connection, welcomes parents desperate to find safe spaces where their children can experience love and acceptance, and hosts volunteers and facilitators who create welcoming environments across Wilmington. With deep roots in the Cape Fear community, the Center remains committed to the values Frank Harr embodied: compassion, humanitarian service, and unwavering commitment to equality for all people. The Center operates as a Centerlink member, connecting with an international network of LGBTQ organizations dedicated to strengthening communities and supporting local LGBTQ centers nationwide.

Founded as part of the national 100 Black Men of America movement that began in New York in 1963, the 100 Black Men of Coastal North Carolina represents a community-driven commitment to transforming lives in the Wilmington area and throughout southeastern North Carolina. This 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization brings together a diverse group of African-American men who understand firsthand the critical importance of mentorship in shaping the futures of young people, particularly Black males. Rooted in the belief that mentors point the way to success, the organization has built meaningful relationships with youth across New Hanover and Brunswick counties through sustained engagement and genuine partnership. The members of 100 Black Men of Coastal North Carolina come from varied professional backgrounds—from skilled trades to executive leadership—creating a rich network of role models who demonstrate that success takes many forms. Operating programs in local middle schools and partnering with Cape Fear Community College for high school initiatives, the organization weaves itself into the fabric of the Wilmington community. Beyond academics, the organization emphasizes leadership development, professional skills, and exposure to educational pathways through college exploration trips and site visits. Parents and educators consistently express gratitude for the free, accessible programs that provide invaluable support to students during critical developmental years. The organization's impact extends beyond individual student success to strengthening the entire Cape Fear region by investing in youth who will become the community's future leaders, professionals, and engaged citizens.