The event had to be canceled due to insufficient interest and difficulty in finding reliable sponsorship. PFLAG Spartanburg can only run fundraisers like this when our community is fully involved and excited about what we’re doing. If you’d like to help us plan our next fundraiser please consider becoming a member and attending our meetings so that we can compile a database of volunteers willing to be active and involved in PFLAG Spartanburg.

ABOUT THE UPLIFT OUTREACH CENTER

The center, which opened in August, is currently in the process of obtaining their 501c3 status. The Uplift Outreach Center is currently open two afternoons a week to LGBTQ+ youth as a safe space. The center offers support and partners with local, like minded organizations and individuals to provide resources.

“PFLAG Spartanburg has recognized the need for more safe spaces and resources for members of the LGBTQ+ community. We are very excited about the Uplift Outreach Center which is providing a safe space for LGBTQ+ youth as well as partnering with other organizations to eventually provide mental health resources, std/HIV testing, clothing, food, recreation and most importantly, a safe space for LGBTQ+ youth and adults.”

A 2017 study entitled “EXPLORING THE NEEDS & ASSETS OF THE LGBTQ COMMUNITY IN UPSTATE, SC” found that nearly half of the LGBTQ respondents in Upstate South Carolina felt like outcasts at school and/or were alienated by family, leaving them few places to find help and support. According to the American Psychological Association, “LGBTQ youth have higher rates of suicidal ideation and suicide attempts”. This community also faces higher rates of discrimination, health risks, and economic challenges as well as being at a higher risk of experiencing homelessness and substance abuse.

Uplift Outreach Center is currently in need of sponsors, partners and volunteers.

For more information regarding the Uplift Outreach Center, please visit the website at www.upliftoutreachcenter.org or contact Uplift President, Deb Foreman at 864-381-7234 or email info@upliftoutreachcenter.org.

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