HONORING OUR PAST WITH
A BOLD VISION FOR OUR FUTURE
For three decades, the Jim Toy Community Center (JTCC) has been a lifeline for LGBTQ+ people in Washtenaw County—a place of connection, advocacy, and resilience. Inspired by the vision of civil rights pioneer Jim Toy, we have worked tirelessly to ensure every LGBTQ+ person in our community feels seen, valued, and protected.
​
But our work has never been more critical. Across the country, LGBTQ+ rights are under attack, threatening the hard-won progress of past generations. Strong local institutions like JTCC are essential—we are a beacon of safety, a force for progress,
and a vital advocate for equality.
BUILDING A BOLD,
BRIGHT FUTURE
As we mark our 30th anniversary, we invite you to stand with us. Together, we can protect our community, push back against discrimination, and build a future where every LGBTQ+ person can thrive.
With your support, we will:
-
Expand Support & Services: Provide vital resources, including affirming healthcare connections, individualized support, and community-building events.
-
Defend LGBTQ+ Rights Through Advocacy and Education: Mobilize for policies that protect and uplift our community.
-
Sustain a Safe Gathering Space: Keep our new home at 560 South Main Street open for those who need it most.
-
Grow Ann Arbor Pride: Strengthen visibility and create affirming spaces for celebration and advocacy.
-
Build a Sustainable Future: Secure the staffing and operational support needed to expand our impact.
NEEDS AND PRIORITIES
A Home for Community
and Connection
​
For decades, Braun Court in Ann Arbor’s Kerrytown was a sanctuary for the LGBTQ+ community. Though familiar spaces have closed, we are excited to announce our new home at 560 South Main Street. More than just a building, this 1,200-square-foot space is a lifeline—a place where people can gather, find support, and build community. With your help, we can maintain this safe and welcoming space, ensuring that every LGBTQ+ individual and ally has a place to belong.
​
Essential Support and Services
​
The need for affirming support has never been greater. Our community survey shows pressing demand for social events, youth and senior programs, health resources, and access to necessities like food and housing. Our new space allows us to resume in-person services and foster deeper connections. With newly added staff, we can expand partnerships and strengthen our impact. Your support ensures we continue to provide critical resources and meet the evolving needs of our community.
​
Visibility Through Ann Arbor Pride
​
Ann Arbor Pride is a powerful platform for visibility, bringing together nearly 10,000 attendees with expanded programming, multiple performance stages, and four times the number of vendors. More than a celebration, it fosters understanding, combats stigma, and creates space for LGBTQ+ joy and resilience. Your support sustains this vital tradition and strengthens our ability to host affirming, inclusive events.
​
Advocacy, Education, and Action
​
In today’s climate, LGBTQ+ rights are under attack, making advocacy and education more urgent than ever. Whether hosting community events like Trans Day of Awareness, getting out the vote through Pride at the Polls, or providing vital resources, we are committed to defending equality. Through partnerships with Equality Michigan, the Coalition of Michigan LGBT Centers, CenterLink, and local, state, and federal leaders, we push for policies that protect and uplift our community. Your support empowers us to continue this fight for justice.
Make an Impact
​
Your contribution fuels programs, advocacy, and essential services that create lasting change. Donate today to ensure Washtenaw County remains a beacon of safety, resilience, and equality for all.
​
Please consider making a contribution by clicking on Donate Now!
For more information, reach out to us at development@jimtoycenter.org
