Board Member: Jadein Black

"The Jim Toy Community Center is a place where people can express their authentic identity without fear of judgment. That kind of space is more important now than ever."

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For Jadein Black, the journey with the Jim Toy Community Center began over a decade ago as a performer and entertainment director for Ann Arbor Pride (formerly OutFest). What started as an opportunity to help plan a celebration quickly evolved into a deep commitment to the center’s broader mission. “I wanted to be involved beyond just Pride events,” Jadein explains. “I wanted to support the center’s work year-round.”

Now in a second year on the board, Jadein remains driven by the center’s ability to create a safe and affirming space for the LGBTQ+ community. “Being involved has been a constant reminder that there are supportive communities encouraging people to be their best, most authentic selves,” Jadein says. That sense of belonging is something the center has provided for years, even without a physical location. Now, with a dedicated space, Jadein sees new opportunities to expand its impact.

A strong advocate for education, Jadein hopes to see the center grow its programming with more workshops, seminars, and interactive sessions. “It’s important that we’re not just entertaining but also educating,” they emphasize. “Expanding learning opportunities will help foster a deeper understanding of the issues affecting our community.”

With LGBTQ+ rights under increasing pressure, Jadein knows that visibility, engagement, and advocacy are more critical than ever. The message to those who haven’t yet connected with the center is simple: Reach out. “Whether you’re looking for support, a sense of community, or a way to get involved—this space is for you.”