Stonewall Columbus has been engaged in a number of outreach efforts recently. The goal is to try and capture the needs in specific demographics in Central Ohio. Our diversity initiative has been focused on our people of color in Columbus. Lead by Vice President, Wanda Ellis, this initiative began after a panel discussion with people from the African American community who were very honest about the history of their involvement with SWC and the impressions that they have received over the years. Basically the discussion came down to one question, "Is Stonewall Columbus really for me?" Our community is a mosaic with no piece exactly like another. As an organization, we have to recognize that fact. Although we can’t be all things to all people, it is definitely possible to listen to what the community is saying and build programs to support the needs. After that focus group I think we have begun to be more inclusive with our people of color and my hope is to continue to increase that practice.

Last week I attended the Ohio State University GLBTSS mixer on campus and I had a chance to speak with students about their impressions of GLBT Columbus. These students, some of them from very small towns in Ohio, were thrilled to share their experiences after two days of University life. I have been hearing from the community that there needs to be more at Stonewall Columbus for this demographic, young adults ages 18-25.

On Thursday, October 4, 2007 at 6:00 p.m. at the Center on High 1160 N. High Street, our staff will be conducting a focus group of GLBT young adults ages 18-25 to address some of the issues that are affecting this age group and what they would like to see at Stonewall Columbus in the way of programming to meet those needs.

I hope that we have a good crowd of creative, opinionated people who are willing to share their ideas. As we build this community center we will need to have the energy of this group to be truly successful.