The Frederick Center exists to support and advocate for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) people and our families so we thrive, accepted and affirmed, in the broader Frederick community. --Vision: The Center is dedicated to being the leading organization for LGBTQ resources and advocacy in central Maryland. --Values We value: Respect - We believe all individuals deserve the right to dignity and respect. Privacy & Security - We value participant’s right to privacy and will provide a secure environment for all people within The Center. Authenticity - We value and encourage honesty and self-expression. Equality - We will treat all people equally and strive for equality for all LGBTQ individuals in Maryland Action - We seek to organize and engage the LGBTQ community and their allies in order to educate and engage the public. Community - We will foster an atmosphere conducive to socialization among members in various stages of acceptance and create a cohesive community. Awareness - We will create a means for identifying at-risk individuals and provide intervention as required. The foundation for a LGBTQ Community Center was built in 2012, including organizing Frederick's first Pride event and starting a weekly youth support group. We are a 501(c)(3) organization. Frederick's first Pride-month event was the Picnic in the Park in 2012 at Ballenger Creek Park; 300 people attended. In 2013 we renamed it simply Frederick Pride; 1,000 people attended. 2014 Frederick Pride moved downtown Frederick; attendance grew to 3,000. In 2016 attendance blossomed to 6,000. Adults: There are numerous monthly events and opportunities to seek support, www.thefrederickcenter.org/links-to-resources/programs. You can also sign up for our free e-newsletter there, or become a member/donate. Adults ages 18-26: We provide a safe and confidential space for LGBTQ+ identifying young adults to meet and provide mutual support. Our Young Adult support group meets weekly on Mondays via Zoom at 7:00 pm. Youth: We provide two support groups, Youth Group (for ages 13-17) and Youth Group Jr (for ages 9-13), in order to allow young members of our community to build friendships, discuss LGBTQ+ topics, and receive support in a safe and affirming space. Youth Group Jr meets weekly on Wednesdays at 5:00 pm, and Youth Group meets weekly on Wednesdays at 7:00 pm. Both groups meet in-person at The Frederick Center, 322 West Patrick Street.
