Why We Give: The Wells-O’Brien Family
- kentlr0
- 3 days ago
- 1 min read
Patrick and Demetrike Wells-O’Brien first connected with the Jim Toy Community Center through community events and friends who spoke about the importance of having a dedicated LGBTQ+ space in Washtenaw County. They were immediately drawn to JTCC’s role as one of the few places outside the University of Michigan that truly centers and uplifts the LGBTQ+ community.
Their commitment to JTCC is rooted in personal history and shared values. Both know how meaningful it is to have a safe, affirming place to gather, and for Demetrike, a similar organization provided essential support during his teenage years. Supporting JTCC helps ensure others have access to the kind of community care that made a difference in their own lives.
Ann Arbor Pride has been especially impactful for them. Watching it grow from a small parking lot event into a major downtown celebration filled with families, joy, and visibility reminds them why this work matters. Their organizations, Demetrike Wells-O’Brien State Farm and Gift of Life Michigan, have proudly served as Platinum Sponsors every year since 2023.
Patrick and Demetrike hope their support helps the Center deepen its outreach, expand its programming, and create more opportunities for people to find community. Above all, they want JTCC to remain a place where everyone can show up exactly as they are and know they belong.
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