Out on the Lakeshore marks change with upcoming events
Out on the Lakeshore, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, has announced major organizational updates — changes that Executive Director Jennifer Evans says the group has worked hard to achieve.
HOLLAND — Out on the Lakeshore, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, has announced major organizational updates — changes that Executive Director Jennifer Evans says the group has worked hard to achieve.
Founded in 2015 by the board of Holland is Ready and officers of Pride, OOTL was formed to serve as a community center for LGBTQ+ individuals while providing resources, support, and education for community members and their allies.
While originally funded primarily through grants from organizations such as the Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area and the Lakeshore Ethnic Diversity Alliance, OOTL launched its "League of Allies" fundraising program. The program generates recurring monthly individual donations, allowing staff to spend more time serving the community and less time writing grant applications.
"There's a lot of statistics that talk about nonprofits being more successful and sustainable with community support," Evans said. "We still have our typical sponsorship levels for businesses and corporations, but we also have our individual League of Allies."
Every year, OOTL serves thousands of visitors. Through the League of Allies, support for the LGBTQ+ community extends beyond Pride Month in June to run year-round.
"I wish I could scream from the mountaintops how important and valuable $5, $10, $25 a month can be," Evans said. "If someone signed up for the League of Allies at $25 a month, their $25 could add up to the cost of all the snacks that we provide for our youth hours for the entire year."
Upcoming events
On Saturday, Oct. 17, OOTL will host its first "Show Your Work" Artist Showcase — an open house featuring live performances and gallery exhibits designed to showcase multidisciplinary artwork and connect the community with local LGBTQ+ artists.
Another initiative supported by the League of Allies is "Neighbor to Neighbor," scheduled for 6-8 p.m. Oct. 20 and Nov. 10 at the Midtown Center, 96 W. 15th St., Holland. The event aims to foster community connections and connect residents with trusted resources.
"It's essentially neighbors teaching practical skills to neighbors," Evans said, "whether it's sewing something up, or bike maintenance, or asking general questions about car maintenance, and getting back an answer that feels comfortable."
The program includes hands-on learning, live demonstrations, and assistance with immediate needs.
Event organizers remind attendees to "come curious, leave a little more capable and a little more connected."
For more information on OOTL, its programs, or to join the League of Allies, visit the organization's website. To become a member of the League of Allies, click here.
— Mallory Burt is a reporter for Ottawa News Network. Contact her at newsroom@ottawanewsnetwork.org.
