Who's in the 'Hood?

by Frances Neagley

The San Francisco LGBT Community Center sits at the gateway to Hayes Valley, on Market Street at Octavia Boulevard. Thom Lynch is the Executive Director who serves as spokesperson for the organization, supervises the staff, and oversees the fundraising. His Executive Assistant, Fred Lopez, is also involved in community events, fundraising and volunteer orientation.

Recently, I sat down with Thom and Fred to talk about the Center and the Hayes Valley neighborhood.

VOICE: How does the LGBT Center relate to the neighborhood?

The San Francisco LGBT Community Center is a vital part of the bustling network of the city. We serve people from all over the world, but find true strength in the residents of this amazing city we call our own. We love our neighbors, especially the involved, informed citizens like the members of HVNA. We are so pleased that the neighborhood association has been so actively involved in the development of Patricia’s Green and its surrounding areas. While we all may not agree one hundred percent of the time, we respect the dedication, hard work, and participation of all community members.

The Center provides vital information and essential referrals to hundreds of people monthly, including referrals to businesses and organizations in Hayes Valley. We are looking forward to a closer relationship with the Hayes Valley Neighborhood Association.

VOICE: How many people does the Center currently serve?

On a monthly basis, The Center serves 9,000 visitors with over 400 events. Up to 75 percent of The Center’s visitors are San Francisco residents, demonstrating its strength as a community resource.

VOICE: What kind of programs are going on at the Center and how can the neighborhood participate?

We encourage all HVNA members to consider a membership to The Center, which will show your support of the work that The Center does. We have six programming areas, including Economic Development, Health & Wellness, Families Children and Youth, Policy and Community Initiatives, Arts Culture and Social Activities, and the Charles M. Holmes Campus Facilities Department. Some great examples of great ways to become involved are the San Francisco Newcomers’ Assistance Program (SNAP), which works to help gay and bi men new to the city meet new people in a supportive environment. Additionally, our volunteer programs are thriving. Our new social network group, Center Women Present, produces events monthly for all female-identified lesbians and bisexuals to build community.

VOICE: How can our members find out more about your activities?

Our website, www.sfcenter.org, has a calendar with all of the events that are happening at The Center, as well as information on how to rent a room for your next event.