Increasing Visibility, Acceptance, and Appreciation of the LGBTQ+ Community in Washtenaw County Since 1995
For 30 years, the Jim Toy Community Center has been at the forefront of championing LGBTQ+ rights in Washtenaw County and beyond. Inspired by our namesake, Jim Toy—a true pioneer in the fight for civil rights—we have cultivated a vibrant, inclusive community where diverse identities and orientations are not only acknowledged but celebrated.
Now, as we embark on an exciting new chapter, we invite you to join us in honoring our legacy and helping us shape a bold future filled with possibility. Together, we can empower LGBTQ+ individuals and allies through advocacy, education, community-building, and essential support services.
Building a Bold, Bright Future
As we celebrate our 30th anniversary, the Jim Toy Community Center is uniquely positioned as a vital hub for advancing LGBTQ+ equality, inclusion, and belonging.
Your support can help us:
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Provide Impactful Programs: Deliver diverse programming and networking opportunities that uplift our community.
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Strengthen Community Ties: Serve as a central point for local nonprofits and organizations, amplifying our collective impact.
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Advocate for Change: Be a strong voice in local and state politics, driving policy changes that promote equality.
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Create Safe Spaces: Maintain a welcoming center where community members can gather, find support, and engage in meaningful programming.
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Mobilize Community Engagement: Inspire our staff, volunteers, and others to make a visible impact in our community.
NEEDS AND PRIORITIES
Physical Space for Community and Capacity Building
For decades, Braun Court in Ann Arbor’s Kerrytown was a sanctuary for the LGBTQ+ community. Though we faced challenges with the closing of familiar spaces—including the physical location of the Jim Town Community Center—we are excited to announce our new home at 560 South Main Street in Ann Arbor. This 1,200-square-foot space is more than just a building; it’s a lifeline for our community—a place where we can gather, support one another, and strengthen our networks.
Your support helps us to maintain a safe and welcoming space for LGBTQ+ individuals and allies, ensuring that everyone can find a place to belong.
Support, Services, and Staffing
The demand for support is critical. Our community survey and direct inquiries reveal a pressing need for more social and community-building events, affirming health resources, support and services for youth and seniors, and basic necessities like food and housing. Our new space enables us to resume essential in-person services and create connections, ensuring no one is left behind.
With our new paid staff to enhance our operations, we can cultivate partnerships that expand our reach and deepen our impact.
We continue to evolve Ann Arbor Pride, our signature celebration of LGBTQ+ identities, community, and allyship in Washtenaw County, into a more inclusive event. With nearly four times the number of vendors and multiple performance stages, Ann Arbor Pride is an important platform for visibility with a record-breaking attendance of nearly 10,000 people.
Your support ensures we can meet the urgent needs of our community through in-person support and services and community collaborations.
Advocacy, Education, and Action
In today’s polarized climate, advocacy and education are more important than ever. Together, we can ensure LGBTQ+ rights and dignity are upheld.
Whether sharing information and resources at local Pride celebrations, university events, or community gatherings such as Trans Day of Awareness, helping get out the vote through Pride at the Polls, or responding to daily inquiries, we take seriously our role as advocates and educators.
Through partnerships with Equality Michigan, the Coalition of Michigan LGBT Centers, CenterLink—the Coalition of U.S. LGBTQ Community Centers, and others, including local, state, and federal elected officials, we tirelessly drive policy changes that pave the way for a future where everyone is recognized, supported, and valued.
Your support empowers us to champion equality and justice for every LGBTQ+ individual in Washtenaw County.
