Founded in August 2014 by a dedicated group of community members in State College, Pennsylvania, Centre LGBT+ emerged from a grassroots commitment to preventing LGBT+ suicides and enhancing the wellbeing of the local LGBT+ community and their families. What began as informal open-mic nights and community gatherings has evolved into a thriving organization that directly responds to the expressed needs of the people it serves. When teenagers requested activities, Centre LGBT+ created the annual True to You youth summit and launched ongoing youth programming. When community members sought connection and healing, the organization established support groups and social networks. When individuals needed resources and affirming spaces, Centre LGBT+ developed their gender-affirming clothing closet and opened a welcoming physical center on East Calder Way. This responsive, community-driven approach has made Centre LGBT+ an essential institution in Centre County, providing not just services but a genuine sense of belonging. The organization's commitment extends beyond their walls through collaborative advocacy and community outreach that works toward creating a more inclusive and equitable Centre County for everyone. With their own physical location serving as the region's first and only LGBT+ center, Centre LGBT+ continues to demonstrate that meaningful social change happens when community members come together with shared values and a determination to support one another.
State College, PA