Creating Safe Spaces & Saving Lives: The Journey of ARE's LGBTQ+ Initiatives

The Valley Today

In today's episode, host Janet Michael welcomed the co-directors of the new AIDS Response Effort (ARE) LGBTQ+ Community Center, Matt Buracker and Mary Bohacek. The conversation covered the groundwork and preparation of the center, which is currently under renovation, and discussed the broad range of services that ARE provides to the community, including HIV prevention, testing services, a comprehensive harm reduction program, and a robust LGBTQ community support system.

Mary elaborated on the significance of the community center and how it fosters a safe and inclusive environment for LGBTQ individuals and their families. She illustrated this point with a touching story about a father and his transgender child seeking information and support. Matt spoke of the various programs and events happening at the center, such as Coffee and Coloring, Stitch and Bitch, and game nights, which help build a sense of community. He talked about the importance of the LGBTQ Center in addressing stigma and ensuring everyone feels welcome and safe while accessing necessary resources.

Mary mentioned upcoming events, including Winchester Pride Weekend, highlighting the importance of community engagement and support for LGBTQ individuals. They both stressed the essential roles played by volunteers and the broad community support for ARE's various initiatives. Mary and Matt emphasized that the center is a place for allies and loved ones as much as for LGBTQ members themselves. Both shared the challenges and rewards of their work, underscoring the profound impact the community center aims to have in the Winchester area.

Listeners were informed about ways the public can contribute, such as volunteering or donating furniture, paint, or financial resources to support the center's development. Mary also provided details on how businesses or individuals can get involved in their renovation efforts.

The show concluded with an encouragement to listeners to visit ARE's website: https://aidsresponseeffort.org/ and social media: https://www.facebook.com/AidsResponseEffort/ for updates and volunteer opportunities.