Outreach to LGBT Teens and More

Summer brings new experiences and new ideas!   Alice visited UUC Ogden in Utah, a breakthrough congregation with a 7-year old drop in center for GLBTQ teens and friends, seen above.   Housed in the church’s “lower level,” this bright and friendly place welcomes about 50 teens each week!   The volunteer coordinator, 21 year old Jackson, has been coming here since he was fourteen.    It’s open two afternoons a week, one including supper.  A relaxed atmosphere, comfortable chairs, and casual supper together all promote friendship and a feeling of community.   A resource center full of books, newspapers and magazines is much appreciated by teens.    Occasionally, the group presents a program at the public library.

At our July Social Justice Meeting, Alice shared information and pictures from this visit and the group seriously discussed the possibility of partnering with other groups in Sptg and also of applying for grants to fund a drop-in afternoon program.  This might begin with once or twice a month rather than weekly.  We will continue to gather information, discuss with incoming minister, and bring our findings to the Board in the coming months for their discussion.  Look for more on this at our next meeting, Aug. 22, 7:00.

Big Brother/Big Sister:  An excellent presentation from BB/BS staff focused on the needs of hispanic children in Spartanburg.   “You can make a difference for just one child in a few hours a week.”  Presenters passed around a sign up sheet for those who wanted additional information.

Recent Share the Plate  For June, we collected $220 for Spartanburg Habitat for Humanity.
In May, collections totaled  $280  for MSU CARES.   Thank you to all for your contributions!
Money in SJ budget for UPSTATE PRIDE   $200  for ad & donation to upcoming Pride Festival.