Gay Day at the Zoo 2024

Gay day at the zoo may 5th 2024

Mark your calendars because on Sunday, May 5th from 10am to 3pm, we will be having our annual Gay Day at the Zoo event!  The annual Gay Day at the Zoo is a DC favorite for the LGBTQ community! For one day, hundreds of LGBTQ folks, families, and allies come together to show their pride and enjoy the animals and sights at the National Zoological Park. Let’s fill the Zoo with rainbows! Wear rainbow to represent our community and show you are a part of the event! Support the work of the DC LGBTQ+ Community Center which educates, empowers, celebrates, and connects the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender communities.

TICKETS – Everyone must reserve tickets online before the event. Reserve your tickets and visit the schedule.

SCHEDULE

10 a.m. – 3 p.m.  – Scratch Art Craft Station | Great Meadow

Get creative and design your very own animal mask! Let your imagination run wild and scratch unique, rainbow-colored patterns on the mask of your choice.

10 a.m. – GenOUT Youth Chorus | Great Meadow Stage  

The GenOUT Youth Chorus is the Washington, D.C. area’s only vocal ensemble for LGBTQ+ and allied youth. An outreach ensemble of the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, D.C., GenOUT operates to give LGBTQ+ and allied youth a voice through song, and to connect that voice to community.

11 a.m.  – Ants on a Log Family Concert | Great Meadow Stage

Ants on a Log is a Philadelphia-based music trio who plays humorous songs for children and other childlike people.  Join us for this special concert, which features themes of environmental education, climate justice, inclusion, queer identity, and community!

12 p.m.  – Community Picnic with SMYAL, the DC LGBTQ+ Community Center, and Rainbow Families | Great Meadow

Grab lunch at one of the various dining options throughout the park and head to the Great Meadow for a community picnic. Meet other families, staff from locally-based LGTBQ+ community organizations, and play lawn games provided by the DC LGBTQ+ Community Center.

1 p.m. – 3 p.m.  – Daytime Dance Party with Les the DJ | Great Meadow

Les the DJ, aka Les Talusan, is a DJ whose musical practice immerses audiences in the joy of community-powered discovery. Born and raised in Manila, Philippines, Les has been based in Washington, D.C. for over 20 years. Fueled by their own story of resilience, liberation and courage as an immigrant, parent and survivor, Les centers the songs cherished, remembered and celebrated by people of the global diaspora.

Meet the Staff: Dylan

Welcome Dylan (she/her) to the DC Center! She will be joining the DC Center Team as a Development intern. She is a graduate political science student at American University. You can meet Dylan at the DC Center on weekdays and some evenings. Dylan is looking forward to assisting LGBTQ+ community members in D.C.

Birthdate, Astro Sign

August 25th, Virgo

 

Where are you originally from? 

North Carolina

 

Why did you start working at the DC Center? 

I want to develop professional skills while serving my community.

 

What has been your favorite part about working at the DC Center?

The staff has been so welcoming!

 

What is your music anthem? 

Judas by Lady Gaga

 

What is your favorite part about the LGBTQ+ community? 

I love the sense of community. There’s always some level of familiarity, even when meeting a stranger in the community.

 

What is your favorite spot in DC and what do you do there? 

I love the soccer field in Adams Morgan. It’s a great spot to read or people watch.

 

What is your favorite queer movie?  

Jennifer’s Body

 

What color would you paint the White House, given the chance?  

I think a holographic White House would be great.

 

Who do you look up to in the queer community?

My friends!

Meet the staff: Esete

Welcome Esete (she/her) to the DC Center! Esete will be joining the DC Center as the Health and Wellness intern. She is a student at George Washington University studying Public Health, Human Services, and Sociology. You can meet Esete at the DC Center on Fridays. Esete looks forward to contributing to an organization that educates and empowers many underserved individuals. 

Birthdate, Astro Sign

May 7th/ Taurus 

Where are you originally from? 

I was born in Ethiopia but I grew up in Atlanta, GA.

Why did you start working at the DC Center? 

Through my major, I have developed a deep understanding of the importance of health education, advocacy, and community support, and have always wanted to contribute in any way I can. The DC Center is the perfect place to start. 

What has been your favorite part about working at the DC Center?

My favorite part thus far is how supportive and welcoming everyone at the DC center is. 

What is your music anthem? 

Praise Jah In The Moonlight by YG Marley 

What is your favorite part about the LGBTQ+ community? 

I love that the community offers so much love and support for people from all walks of life. 

What is your favorite spot in DC and what do you do there? 

Gravelly Point park 

What is your favorite queer movie?  

Moonlight 

What color would you paint the White House, given the chance?  

Orange 

Who do you look up to in the queer community?

Judith Butler because of her work has been very influential in challenging traditional binary views of gender, and opening up space for a more inclusive understanding of identity. 

Search Completed: The DC Center is looking for a Psychotherapist/Program Director

Update (November 2023): We have found our new team member and the search is complete!

The DC Center is looking to hire a Psychotherapist/Program Director for Behavioral Health Services and the DC Anti-Violence Project

You can apply by submitting your resume and cover letter to [email protected] after reading the full job description below. We are accepting applications through October 9, 2023.

Psychotherapist/Program Director
Behavioral Health Services and the
DC Anti-Violence Project
The DC Center for the LGBTQ+ Community 

The DC Center LGBTQ+ Community Center has a mission of educating, empowering, uplifting, celebrating, elevating and connecting the LGBTQ+ community of Washington, DC. The Psychotherapist/Program Director position leads the Behavioral Health Services Team and the DC Anti-Violence Project to assist in the DC Center mission by offering trauma-informed individual and group counseling, case management, advocacy and empowerment to LGBTQ+ survivors of violence, abuse and trauma, and LGBTQ+ expertise to partnering providers in the DMV District. These services are available free-of-charge to our community members due to grant funding from the Office of Victim Services and Justice Grants (OVSJG). The Psychotherapist/Program Director Position reports to the Executive Director. 

Skills & Experience

  • Appropriate licensure to practice clinical mental health therapy in DC and MD (examples: LICSW, LGSW, LMSW, LPC)
  • At least 2 years’ experience working as a clinician with diverse client populations
  • At least 2 years’ experience in program coordination or management
  • At least 2 years’ experience in overseeing or supervising others
  • Experience working with LGBQ+, TGNC, BIPOC adults
  • Demonstrated ability to problem-solve and communicate at all levels verbally as well as in writing
  • Demonstrated ability to build and maintain relationships, both with colleagues and with key stakeholders in the larger victim-serving network of Washington, DC
  • Prior nonprofit/grant management experience
  • Experience working professionally with a diverse team
  • Organizational skills suited to multitasking in a fast-paced environment. 

Bilingual capabilities are strongly preferred, but not required. 

Please note that this position does not have on-site clinical supervision. If the Psychotherapist/Program Director wishes to pursue clinical supervision, they can do so with support from a budgeted amount in the contractor budget line, as per the DC Anti-Violence Project grant award. 

Functions and Duties

  • Provide programmatic direction and support to BHS/DCAVP team members
  • Deliver trauma-informed, culturally competent crisis and short-term individual and group mental health support services to LGBTQ+ survivors of violence, abuse and trauma who seek services with the DC Center
  • Conduct intake assessments with all new potential clients to assess safety, job status, financial resources, living arrangements, current support system, type and history of victimization, legal issues, related medical history, and clinical symptomatology to determine appropriate treatment approaches 
  • Assess clients in crisis and provide necessary intervention (safety plans, hospitalization, referrals, etc.)
  • Provide clients with LGBTQ-friendly and affirming referrals to community-based services, aimed at assisting individuals affected by crime, violence and trauma
  • Keep current and accurate records of all clinical interactions in our clinical database system
  • Provide community-based expert consultations, training and collaborations in line with OVSJG grant requirements  
  • Manage grant deliverables for the OVSJG grant throughout the fiscal year — quarterly and annual reports, stats collection and coordinate annual grant applications
  • Work in partnership with The DC Anti-Violence Project community members to further the mission, vision, and values of DCAVP
  • Oversee Case Management & Advocacy Specialist’s community advocacy work with the DC Anti-Violence Project
  • Help facilitate an open, supportive, and warm environment for all individuals who visit The DC Center

Salary range $65,000 – $75,000.

Position includes health insurance, vacation and personal leave benefits.

 

Meet the Board: Preston Hawes

Join the DC Center in welcoming our newest Board Member: Preston Hawes!
We are estatic to have him on our team.

Read all about Preston’s background, interests, and inspirations below:

Where are you originally from and how long have you been in DC?

I’m originally from rural Saskatchewan, Canada, having grown up on my parents hobby farm. I moved to NYC initially in 2001 to attend the Mannes College of Music, however my dorm was about 3 blocks from the WTC when the events of 9/11 unfolded. So I briefly moved back to Canada before relocating to the DC area in 2002. DC has been home-base since then, even while taking some time away for grad school and doctoral studies.

Please summarize in a short paragraph or two your interests and how they relate to serving on the Board. What impact do you see yourself having?

One would think that the arena of classical music is one where people are accepted and celebrated regardless of gender, race, age, or sexual orientation. As I traversed the globe working as a violin soloist, I sadly saw how wrong I was and how much work there was to do to ensure that artistic spaces are representative, that access to training, visibility, and professional opportunity is equitable.

Focusing my own artistic expression more as a service to community (as opposed to the self-serving climb up the professional ladder) has helped me learn better where and when to take a seat to simply listen and learn; thus shifting the spotlight. This revealed to me a beautiful and stunning world of limitless talent and vision, driven by jaw-dropping tenacity from people – particularly within the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities – who don’t have the funding, the platform, or general support from society that mainstream artists blithely enjoy.

I hope that as a member of the Board I can help focus our efforts in a way that will elevate these communities, bringing them much deserved visibility, access, support, and opportunity.

What is your favorite spot in DC and what do you do there?

I feel so fortunate to live near Rock Creek Park. And being a forest creature myself, I spent months discovering the intricately winding trails in the northern section of RCP during COVID shutdowns. You can find me wandering on my favorite trails when I need a refresh.

What artistic influences inspire you, such as singers, bands, etc.?

I’m a huge fan of house, western classical music, indy and global/folk music, and I’m constantly in awe by the genius of our local DC dj’s. As a violinist, I get to perform on fine violins created in the 17th and 18th Century that over hundreds of years have traveled the globe being played by other violinists who paved the way for us now. So I’m often thinking about what sort of history our talented artists are making today, and I feel so grateful to be in a city where I’m able to witness such a wide variety of talent at work creating that history.

Who do you admire in the LGBTQ+ community?

Resilience! The LGBTQ+ community has endured – even thrived – while being treated as second class citizens, while being denied equal rights, while being shunned and judged by people and institutions who either don’t care to understand or haven’t yet had a meaningful personal opportunity to confront the reality of discrimination that their queer family members, loved ones, friends, co-workers, etc. face every day. The LGBTQ+ community has for untold generations been sidelined, gaslit, guilted, and murdered but still refuses to be silenced; it absorbs that hate, and without accepting it, transforms it into artful beams of love and light that envelop the world and draw in those who need it most.

What are you most excited about regarding the future of the DC Center?

I’m most excited to see it strengthen its visibility, accessibility, and reach. Even with all it already does, there is so much potential for impactful work we can do. I’m excited to be a part of that!

New Logo Announcement!

As The DC Center enters a new chapter of its history with our upcoming relocation, the team has been reflecting on the ways we connect with the community. Brand identity and communications are an important part of any organization, but especially one like ours, that seeks to build meaningful relationships with community members and leaders, ensuring social justice and liberation of all communities are a part of our efforts.

 

With this in mind, we have collaborated with the creatives at Black Digital to design a logo that truly reflects The DC Center, our work, and the direction we are headed. We are thrilled to share our new logo with you in time for DC Pride this weekend.


Please stop by our booth at the Capital Pride festival to talk with us about our new logo and the exciting changes we have in store for the Fall. We will also have temporary tattoos available with our new logo so you can wear your pride!

Meet the Staff: Tia

Meet the Intern!

Welcome Tia (she/they) to the DC Center! Tia looks forward to working as the Development Intern at the DC Center this Summer, where she is excited to connect with the queer community in the city. You can meet Tia at the DC Center on weekdays and some evenings. Tia is also looking forward to working with the DC Center during Pride and supporting the community as they celebrate!

Birthdate, Astro Sign

May 23rd / Gemini

Where are you originally from? 

I was born in Lancaster, PA, but I have lived the past 18 years in Fort Mill, South Carolina.

Why did you start working at the DC Center? 

I started working with the DC Center because I am a Human Services and Social Justice major, which focuses mainly on nonprofit management. I’m very passionate about the services offered by the DC Center, so getting to work as the Development Intern has been a great way to connect my passions and build on skills I’ve learned in school.

What has been your favorite part about working at the DC Center?

I just started but my favorite part so far has been getting to work in-person at the community space!! There is so much offered and it is a great resource for the community.

What is your music anthem? 

I love The View Between Villages by Noah Kahan!

What is your favorite part about the LGBTQ+ community? 

My favorite part about the community is how welcoming and accepting it is, and how easy it is to feel at home! I didn’t come out until my Freshman year in college, but I have already had so many great memories and interactions with the community in a relatively short time.

What is your favorite spot in DC and what do you do there? 

My favorite spot in DC is Young Chow, over by the Capitol! The owner is so sweet and always recognizes my friends and I, and the food is delicious!

What is your favorite queer movie?  

My favorite queer movie is But I’m A Cheerleader!!! I’m absolutely obsessed with it and have forced everyone I know to watch it.

What color would you paint the White House, given the chance?  

I think a dark green with gold accents would be really cool!

Who do you look up to in the queer community?
I look up to a lot of people in the community, especially those in the country music industry that are creating queer music, such as Madeline Kelson and Brooke Eden!

Pride Parade and Festival

Do you like being fabulous?  Do you like being loud? Do you like being proud?  Do you like being yourself and celebrating with others? Do you just want to meet other LGBTQ people and make friends? Well, Pride 2023 is right around the corner! The DC Center is participating in both the Parade and the Festival and we would love for you to come support us.

Saturday, June 10th: Pride Parade – Show your Pride and come out to have a great time! The Parade will start at 14th Street and T Street at 3pm and end at P Street and 21st Street.

Sunday, June 11th: Pride Festival – Like meeting people in the LGBTQ+ community and learning more about LGBTQ+ resources? Stop by the DC Center’s booth at the Festival starting at 12pm.

*We are not looking for more volunteers at this time, but we hope to see you at Pride in the crowd!*

Community Resources For The Holiday Season

Graphic entitled "Community Resources"

The holiday season can be a time of joy and celebration, but it can also be a time when our health and wellbeing are at risk. For many LGBTQ+ people, who may face discrimination, rejection, and isolation from their families and communities. In addition to these external stressors, the holiday season can also bring its own set of mental health challenges, such as increased stress, loneliness, and depression. The DC Center has gathered a range of information to help you navigate the holiday season with your safety and mental health in mind.

If you are having an emergency please consider these options for assistance:

Emergency Shelter & Housing:

DC Shelter Hotline: (202)-399-7093 (24/7, provides free transportation) 

LGBTQ Shelter “Living Life” Alternative: 202-560-5457 | 400 50th St SE

Virginia Williams Family Resource Center: (202)-526-0017 (Women & Families) | 920-A Rhode Island Ave NE, 20018

Basic Needs (Showers, Laundry, Food, Etc.):

S.O.M.E. (So Others Might Eat) : (202) 797-8806 71 O St NW, 20001

Bread for the City: (202) 265-2400 1525 7th St. NW (Holiday Closures/Hours

Hunger Lifeline (202) 644-9807 , assistance in finding emergency food help

Thrive DC: (202) 737-9311 1525 Newton St NW Washington, DC 20010 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM | 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM

Mental Health / Substance Use/ Victimization Support: 

Local Services:

In the District you can get help 24/7 with a mental health crisis by calling 988

Maryland Mobile Crisis: (240)-777-4000   |      Virginia Mobile Crisis: (703)-573-5679

Substance Abuse Support and Referral Center (ARC): (202) 727-8473 75 P Street NE (enter on Florida Avenue near the P Street intersection)

The Triangle Club (LGBTQ+ Recovery Support): (202) 659-8641 1638 R St NW Suite 120, 20009  

NAMI DC Helpline: (202)-466-0972  Monday–Friday, 10 am – 6 pm EST

DC Victim Hotline: 844-4HELPDC (844-443-5732)

Nationwide:

SAGE National LGBT Elder Hotline(877)-360-5428 (24/7)

Trans Lifeline: (877)-565-8860

Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Folx under 25): (866)-488-7386 

LGBT National Help Center: 888-834-45644

IMAlive: Online Chat (24/7) OR  LGBT ADULT Crisis Text Line* – Text HOME to 741741

The National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 (24/7, anonymous, confidential support)

The National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-4673

Holiday Support: 

DC Center “Xmas Day Hangout” : (Zoom link) December 25 @ 1pm – 2pm

Meet The Staff Kiara

 

Birthdate, Astro Sign

May 7th, Taurus 

 

Where are you originally from? 

Harlem, NY

 

Why did you start working at the DC Center? 

I started working at The DC Center because I wanted to be a part of a welcoming, encouraging environment that also encouraged people to express themselves freely.

 

What has been your favorite part about working at the DC Center?

 My favorite part has been the welcoming energy within the DC center.

 

What is your music anthem? 

Anything Beyonce

What is your favorite part about the LGBTQ+ community? 

My favorite part about the LGBTQ+ community is that everybody is allowed to express themselves in whatever way they feel comfortable.

 

What is your favorite spot in DC and what do you do there? 

I don’t have one specific place but anywhere that there is good food!

 

What is your favorite queer movie?  

Moonlight

 

What color would you paint the White House, given the chance?  

Pink 

Who do you look up to in the queer community?

I look up to my uncle and close family friends because they were prominent figures in my life growing up.