Joseph “JoJo” Tyler-Ruffin brings more than just experience behind the wheel—he brings heart, history, and a deep love for community. As our new Driver at LGBT Life Center, JoJo’s journey from property management to nonprofit work is fueled by connection and care. After years of supporting people as a property manager, he’s now stepping into…
New Staff
From Rhode Island to HRVA: Meet Erica, Our New Field Interviewer
Meet Erica (she/her), our newest Field Interviewer supporting the National HIV Behavioral Surveillance (NHBS) project! Originally from Rhode Island, Erica brings a background in call center management and a deep curiosity for learning. Drawn to LGBT Life Center’s mission after exploring our website, she’s now helping gather the critical data that shapes HIV care across…
Welcome Back, Ricky! From Retirement to Reinvigoration
We’re thrilled to welcome back a familiar face — Ricky Stith (he/him) — who rejoins LGBT Life Center as a Field Interviewer with the National HIV Behavioral Surveillance (NHBS). After eight years of dedicated service at the Center and a well-earned retirement in December 2024, Ricky is back in action, bringing his wisdom and warmth…
Luis Estrada Joins LGBT Life Center Board to Champion Community and Financial Strength
With a deep commitment to community advocacy and a wealth of financial expertise, Luis “Lui” Estrada is stepping up as the newest member of the LGBT Life Center’s Board of Directors. As the Director of Finance for Community Hospitals at Riverside Health, Lui brings decades of experience in financial management and organizational leadership. Having previously…
Welcoming Justin Fulton to LGBT Life Center’s Board of Directors!
LGBT Life Center is excited to welcome Justin Fulton to our Board of Directors! With a career dedicated to leadership development, workforce planning, and organizational strategy, Justin brings a wealth of expertise to help strengthen our mission. His passion for equity, inclusion, and community-building aligns deeply with the work of LGBT Life Center. Since moving…
Welcoming Our Newest Board Member: Johnny Benjamin
Today, we’re excited to introduce Johnny Benjamin, one of our newest board members, whose commitment to LGBTQ+ rights and community empowerment is truly inspiring. Name & a nickname you go by (if you have one):Johnny Benjamin Current Job Title/Employer:Private Client Senior Accountant at Brown Advisory Past Experience:Former Collections Remarketing Specialist at Port Alliance FCU What…
Mel Howard: Navigating Community Health and Building Connections
From navigating leadership roles in LGBT-centered organizations to founding Thriving Transmen of Color, Mel Howard’s journey is one of transformation, empowerment, and giving back. As a Community Health Navigator at the LGBT Life Center, Mel brings a wealth of experience from both the nonprofit world and the corporate sector, paired with a deep passion for…
Meet Courtney Kahler: Program Support Specialist at LGBT Life Center
Say hello to Courtney Kahler (she/her), a dedicated Program Support Specialist with a passion for making a difference in the community. With a background as a cosmetologist since 2007, Courtney has brought her compassion and people skills to LGBT Life Center, where she now helps clients access vital resources like the Pride Pantry, mental health…
Welcome Renard: Community-Minded, Creative, and Ready to Make an Impact!
Meet Renard, or Nard as he’s known to many, our new Facility Specialist at LGBT Life Center! With a background in merchandising and years of volunteering in the community, Nard brings a passion for helping others and a commitment to keeping our spaces clean, organized, and ready to serve. Beyond his work here, he’s a…
LIFE Skills Champion: Meet Mahlik Washington, Our Vocational Program Coordinator!
Welcoming Mahlik Washington (He/Him), a vibrant and multi-talented Vocational Program Coordinator at LGBT Life Center! Mahlik joins us from Health Brigade in Richmond, where he worked as a Case Manager and Educator. Passionate about helping others thrive, Mahlik is here to guide clients through our vocational programs, offering support with resume building, interview skills, and…