OutCenter Southwest Michigan mission is to provide support and advocacy for respect, understanding and nondiscrimination to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and allied persons and their families in Southwest Michigan (Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren Counties).
OutCenter is helping to create a diverse, equitable and inclusive Southwest Michigan where LGBTQ+ people and their families thrive.
Programs provide support & guidance, and strategic initiatives help move key systems toward equity, and community organizing builds diverse, inclusive and equitable communities – for everyone.
In 2021 OutCenter continued to make great progress, and set new precedents, helping to make Southwest Michigan an inclusive area with great impacts for youth, families, employers, and employees. Here are some highlights: • 418 policies and practices promoted, enacted and/or modified. • 353 families and school staff members received assistance. • Working with 25+ area school communities and in partnership with Berrien RESA. • Reaching more than 11,000 elementary, middle, high school, and college students. • 22 partners organizations organized to provide more robust and appropriate services to LGBTQ+ people and their families.
OutCenter is a member of Michigan Community Centers Network. Bi-monthly calls coordinate efforts, share news and ideas, and leverage important news and resources into our area.
Monthly advocacy calls with ACLU of Michigan and similar organizations coordinate state-wide efforts to increase equity in Michigan for LGBTQ+ people.
OutCenter is also a member of CenterLink, the national network of LGBTQ+ community centers. Monthly calls and members provide opportunities to educate about the needs of LGBTQ+ people in rural areas and small-town communities.
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