Message from the Executive Director: December 2025
- kentlr0
- 4 hours ago
- 2 min read
Dear Friends, Partners, and Community,
This year was our first full year in the new Jim Toy Community Center, and honestly, it’s been pretty incredible to watch it become what it is today. Every time I walk in and see people meeting, talking, resting, creating, or just feeling comfortable being themselves, it reminds me why this work matters. This space feels alive because you made it that way.
We now host more than 19 meetups and 30+ events every month. That still surprises me when I say it out loud. To every group and organizer who chose to call the Center home this year, thank you. You’re building the culture and the spirit of this place.
Ann Arbor Pride was also our biggest yet. Seeing downtown filled with our community was a moment I won’t forget. And we’re already planning some new additions next year that will make Pride feel even more intentional and connected to the work we’re doing year-round.
This was also the year we began to stretch our programming in new ways — from World AIDS Day to our first Style Swap to the programs we’ll roll out in 2026. We’ve only just started to see what’s possible.
And while the Center has grown, so have the challenges around us. We’ve watched attacks on DEI, harmful policies aimed at LGBTQ+ people, and ongoing efforts to target our trans community, especially youth. These moments are heavy. But the response from our community has been powerful. We continue showing up, supporting each other, sharing information, and refusing to look away.
One thing I’m proud of is how we’ve deepened our partnerships this year. We’ve really leaned into our different strengths, making sure organizations across Washtenaw County are working together instead of separately. That collaboration has made our advocacy stronger and our community safer.
Heading into 2026, we’re carrying this momentum forward by investing in new and expanded programming, strengthening our responsive advocacy, and building intentional partnerships that multiply the impact of everyone’s work.
I’m grateful for this community. You all keep me going, and I’m thankful to be doing this work alongside you!
Here with you,
Joe Halsch
Executive Director
Jim Toy Community Center