ED Reflections

Change is in the air. The cooler days and even crisper nights, leaves  changing colors and of course the spectacular return of pumpkin season (my personal fave!). 

As we transition into the vibrant and cozy season of fall our beloved Diversity Richmond - its purpose, people and programs - is growing stronger and more resilient with each passing day. We are CHANGING y'all! And with change comes opportunity to listen, reflect and plan.

Diversity Richmond is more than just a physical space; we are the hub of support and advocacy for LGBTQ+ individuals and our allies in Greater Richmond. To ensure we continue to thrive and meet the evolving needs of our community, we have embarked on a strategic planning process.

For many of us the buzz words 'strategic planning' brings up a wide range of ideas. For us, we are clear on three components to this process that are key to the future growth potential of Diversity. 

1. Building on our rich 25 year history of service to our community
2. Hearing from community voices that cover the most impacted to those with great privilege
3. Refreshing our vision, mission and identity to reflect forward thinking of the ever changing landscape of LGBTQ+ issues 

The only thing constant is change.

With your input and support I have faith that Diversity Richmond will shape into the LGBTQ+ community hub Greater Richmond deserves.

Offer your voice by completing our survey. 

Stay tuned for updates on our strategic planning progress, and don't forget to check out our fall events. Let's make this fall season one of growth, unity, and celebration.

ED Reflections

Summer is a time of unity and solidarity within the LGBTQ+ community. It provides opportunities to come together at Pride events, community gatherings, and supportive spaces where we can connect and uplift one another. Every opportunity we have to meet up with each other provides chances of connection that form the foundation of care our network of family, friends, colleagues and allies so deserve in this time we are living through.  

Our team at Diversity Richmond - board, staff, VA Pride planning committee - strive together to build a world where everyone feels seen, accepted, and loved.  We hope that you know that and are experiencing that as we continue the Endless Summer of Pride.  Each time we host an event or support events happening across our region we believe they all connect as expressions of universal love and acceptance.  

“YOU put the you in THANK YOU!” ~ Anonymous

As we bask or bake (depending on your preference) in the heat of summer, let's celebrate the spirit of care and connection so visibly present in our greater Richmond community.  

This is all possible because of YOU!  

Thank you for supporting us, showing up with us and continuing to be a part of us as we live out our mission to be the hub for the LGBTQ+ community of Richmond as a catalyst, a voice, a place and a resource.

I especially want to THANK every person who gave generously throughout Pride month.  As a result of your generosity we raised over $10,000 that will go to support improving our event space and providing the resources necessary to help individuals experiencing crisis.  

We remain committed to serving our community and grateful for ALL the ways YOU show your pride and belief in the work we do at Diversity Richmond.  Thank YOU!!

ED Reflections