We’re excited to share big news: LGBT Life Center has received funding to launch a new Rapid Re-Housing (RRH) program that will serve 20 LGBTQ+ households experiencing literal homelessness in Norfolk, Chesapeake, and Western Tidewater—a region where no such program currently exists for our community. That changes now. With this new project, we’re removing barriers…
Center News
2024 Impact Report: A Year of LIFE, Community & Growth
At LGBT Life Center, 2024 was a powerful reminder that even in the face of uncertainty, our community rises. Together—with your support—we’ve expanded, deepened, and strengthened our impact across Hampton Roads. From the opening of our brand-new Hampton facility to launching on-site partner clinics and pharmacies in both Norfolk and Hampton, we reached more people…
HIV Prevention Programs Are Under Attack—Here’s What’s at Stake
A devastating proposal is currently making its way through Washington via the Trump administration’s DOGE office: the potential elimination of federal funding for HIV prevention programs. If enacted, these cuts would shut down the CDC’s HIV prevention division, halting federally funded initiatives that have saved countless lives. This is not an exaggeration—this is a crisis in the making. At LGBT…
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…
Meet Dining Out For Life Ambassador Ben Canty
Dining Out For Life is more than just a night out—it’s an opportunity to give back, connect, and make a real impact in our community. Each year, incredible volunteers step up as Ambassadors to help spread awareness about the LGBT Life Center and our vital services. Sign up to volunteer now >> This year, we’re…
From Intern to Advocate: Meet Mariah, Our Newest Program Support Specialist
Meet Mariah, one of the newest faces at LGBT Life Center! After graduating from Christopher Newport University with a degree in Sociology & Criminology, she transitioned from intern to full-time Program Support Specialist, helping clients navigate housing support services. Passionate about making a difference and working alongside a team dedicated to community impact, Mariah is…
Taking Action in This Political Climate: Next Steps After Our Community Conversation
Last night, we came together for a powerful community conversation—one that highlighted the concerns, fears, and hopes of our LGBTQ+ community and allies. We heard you, and we are committed to taking action. But real change doesn’t happen without collective effort. If you’re wondering what you can do to make a difference in this political…
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…