Asheville, North Carolina, known for its vibrant arts scene and progressive mindset, is also home to a thriving LGBTQIA2+ community. This city in the Blue Ridge Mountains boasts a variety of organizations dedicated to supporting and advocating for LGBTQIA2+ individuals. Here, we shine a spotlight on some of the key organizations making a difference in Asheville’s LGBTQIA2+ community.
Blue Ridge Pride is perhaps the most well-known LGBTQIA2+ organization in Asheville. Founded in 2009, Blue Ridge Pride aims to promote equality, diversity, and inclusion throughout Western North Carolina. The organization hosts the annual Blue Ridge Pride Festival, a lively event featuring music, performances, and a variety of vendors. Beyond the festival, Blue Ridge Pride offers educational programs, advocacy efforts, and community events year-round to support and uplift the LGBTQIA2+ community.
Blue Ridge Pride is more than just an organization; it is a vibrant and essential part of the Asheville community. Through their tireless efforts, Blue Ridge Pride has created a space where LGBTQIA2+ individuals can feel seen, heard, and valued. Their commitment to promoting equality, celebrating diversity, and fostering inclusion ensures that Asheville remains a welcoming and affirming place for all.
The Campaign for Southern Equality (CSE) is a regional organization based in Asheville with a mission to promote full LGBTQIA2+ equality across the South. CSE provides resources and support for LGBTQIA2+ individuals, including legal services, healthcare resources, and advocacy training. The organization is known for its innovative programs like the Southern Equality Fund, which offers rapid-response grants to grassroots LGBTQIA2+ groups and initiatives.
The Southern Equality Fund (SEF) is a cornerstone program of CSE, designed to provide rapid-response grants to grassroots LGBTQIA2+ groups and initiatives across the South. These grants support projects that promote equality, address immediate needs, and build the capacity of local organizations. By empowering grassroots movements, SEF ensures that resources are directed to the communities that need them most.
CSE offers comprehensive legal services to LGBTQIA2+ individuals, including assistance with name and gender marker changes, family law matters, and discrimination cases. The organization’s legal team provides free or low-cost legal representation and advice, helping individuals navigate complex legal systems and secure their rights.
Access to healthcare is a critical issue for many LGBTQIA2+ individuals in the South. CSE’s Healthcare Access program works to improve healthcare for LGBTQIA2+ people by providing training and resources to healthcare providers, advocating for policy changes, and offering direct support to individuals seeking gender-affirming care and other essential health services.
CSE is actively involved in advocacy and policy work at local, state, and federal levels. The organization collaborates with lawmakers, community leaders, and other advocacy groups to push for laws and policies that protect and advance the rights of LGBTQIA2+ individuals. This includes fighting against discriminatory legislation and promoting inclusive policies in areas such as employment, housing, and healthcare.
Education is a key component of CSE’s mission. The organization offers workshops, trainings, and educational materials to schools, businesses, healthcare providers, and community organizations. These programs aim to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and create more inclusive environments for LGBTQIA2+ individuals.
Youth OUTright is dedicated to supporting and empowering LGBTQIA2+ youth in Western North Carolina. This organization provides a safe space for young people to explore their identities, build community, and develop leadership skills. Youth OUTright offers weekly support groups, social events, and educational workshops. Their mission is to create a world where all youth, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, can thrive and lead authentic lives.
The mission of Youth OUTright is to support, empower, and affirm LGBTQIA2+ youth ages 11-20 in Western North Carolina by providing a safe and inclusive space for self-exploration, community building, and leadership development. The organization’s vision is to cultivate a community where LGBTQIA2+ youth are celebrated and valued, and where they can access the resources and opportunities they need to succeed.
Youth OUTright offers a variety of programs and services designed to meet the diverse needs of LGBTQIA2+ youth. These programs focus on providing safe spaces, educational resources, and opportunities for personal and social growth.
Youth OUTright hosts weekly support groups that provide a safe and confidential space for LGBTQIA2+ youth to share their experiences, discuss challenges, and receive support from peers and trained facilitators. These groups help foster a sense of belonging and community among participants.
The organization organizes regular social events, such as movie nights, game nights, and community outings. These events offer LGBTQIA2+ youth a chance to connect with others in a relaxed and affirming environment, reducing feelings of isolation and building lasting friendships.
Youth OUTright offers workshops on a range of topics, including LGBTQIA2+ history, health and wellness, self-advocacy, and leadership skills. These workshops empower youth with knowledge and tools to navigate their identities and advocate for themselves and others.
Tranzmission is a grassroots organization focused on supporting transgender, non-binary, and gender-nonconforming individuals. Founded in 2001, Tranzmission offers a range of services, including support groups, educational workshops, and advocacy efforts. The organization also runs the Trans Health Program, which provides resources and assistance in accessing gender-affirming healthcare. Tranzmission’s goal is to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for transgender and gender-nonconforming people in Asheville.
The Asheville Gay Men’s Chorus (AGMC) is a nonprofit organization that uses music to build community and promote acceptance. Founded in 1999, AGMC performs a variety of concerts throughout the year, often partnering with other local arts organizations. The chorus aims to foster a spirit of inclusivity and celebrate the diversity of the LGBTQIA2+ community through their performances.
Loving Food Resources (LFR) is a food pantry that primarily serves people living with HIV/AIDS and anyone in the LGBTQIA2+ community facing food insecurity. LFR provides groceries, toiletries, and other essentials to individuals and families in need. Their services ensure that no one in the LGBTQIA2+ community goes hungry, reflecting the organization’s commitment to compassion and support.
LGBTQIA2+ organizations play a crucial role in fostering inclusive and supportive communities. These groups provide essential services, resources, and safe spaces for individuals to connect, advocate for their rights, and thrive. By highlighting these organizations, we celebrate their contributions and encourage greater community involvement and awareness.
At Resilient Mind Counseling PLLC, we are committed to supporting the mental health and well-being of LGBTQIA2+ individuals. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact us at 828-515-1246. Together, we can build a more inclusive and resilient community.
