PROGRAMS
Making a Difference
One of our key areas of focus and a source of much success at the Newark LGBTQ+ Commnunity Center is our Community Programs and Support Services. Through our Community Programs and Support Services we have the potential to make a real, positive, and lasting change in the Newark community and its surrounding areas.
Get in touch with us today and see how you can lend a helping hand with this program.
PROGRAMS
COMMUNITY DINNER
Regularly held each month, our goal is to provide a space for people to connect with each other on a regular basis to “break bread” and participate in a group dialogue, if they wish. We ask for a donation of at least $5 at the door, although no one will be turned away for lack of funds. Any extra proceeds will go towards the next dinner, or donated back to the Center. The event is open to the LGBTQ community, allies, and friends.
MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT AND SERVICE REFERRALS
Here at the Newark LGBTQ Community Center, we believe that our community needs access to culturally competent health and wellness services - delivered to our community by highly qualified queer and allied helpers who have lived experience and respect our Queer community. We work to help people find balance - in mind, body and spirit. We are connecting you to these qualified mental health caregivers through telehealth mental health and counseling services.
QUEER EQUALITY YOUTH LEADERS
LGBTQ+ YOUTH PODCAST PROGRAM
The Newark LGBTQ+ Youth Podcast Program is a podcast by and for Newark youth and young adults who identify as LGBTQ+. The program provides Newark youth and young adults the unique opportunity to connect with like-minded peers and allies and share their stories, experiences and opinions about LGBTQ+ issues while learning valuable skills in podcasting, media production, and storytelling.
The podcast will cover a wide range of topics related to the LGBTQ+ community, including coming out, relationships, mental health, bullying, activism, and representation in media. Each episode will feature interviews with LGBTQ+ youth and allies, community leaders, and experts on LGBTQ+ issues.
INTERGENERATIONAL GAME NIGHT
Join us for an unforgettable evening of fun, laughter, and connection at the Newark LGBTQ Community Center’s Intergenerational Game Night! This event is all about bridging generations, sharing stories, and building community through games, snacks, good vibes. From classic board games to exciting new favorites, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Come as you are, bring a friend (or make some new ones), and help us celebrate the vibrant spirit of Newark’s LGBTQ+ family—all ages, all identities, all welcome!
SOCIAL JUSTICE ADVOCACY
The Newark LGBTQ Community Center is a leading voice for justice, equity, and safety for LGBTQ+ people in Newark—especially BIPOC and Queer/Trans communities. We organize collective responses to injustice and work closely with schools, police, colleges, and community partners to create lasting systemic change. Our advocacy focuses on addressing the social and economic needs of our community through education, organizing, and direct action.
Our Executive Director, Beatrice Simpkins, and members of our Board of Trustees are available for trainings and speaking engagements on topics ranging from LGBTQ+ inclusion to anti-discrimination practices. All honorariums support the Center’s ongoing work. Whether through protest, policy engagement, or individual advocacy, we are here to stand with and for our community.
QUEER SUPPORT GROUP
This group meets regularly to discuss topics pertaining to the queer community, as chosen by participants. The groups will have a peer facilitator to guide the discussion. Participants will be asked to “check in” at the beginning of the meeting, but are not required to do so. There will also be breakout sessions held at least once a month led by individuals who identify with the specific group within the queer community and allies. People of all faiths, beliefs, and backgrounds are welcome. New participants are always welcome.