In a world where unity and compassion often seem in short supply, Gay for Good stands as a beacon of hope and solidarity. The nonprofit organization tirelessly works to connect the LGBTQ+ community with broader society through acts of service and volunteerism, their mission simple yet profound: to promote understanding and cooperation across diverse communities by engaging in charitable and social initiatives.
With chapters in cities across the United States, including Raleigh-Durham, Gay for Good has successfully mobilized thousands of volunteers to participate in a wide array of community service projects. From environmental clean-ups and food drives to assisting at animal shelters and supporting underprivileged youth, the organization’s reach is as broad as it is impactful.
The History of Gay for Good
The story of Gay for Good begins in 2008 by three friends —Tony Biel, Steve Gratwick and Frank Roller in Los Angeles, Calif. on a trail below the Hollywood sign after the passage of Proposition 8, which abolished same sex marriage in California. The founders envisioned an organization with the goal to “inspire more LBGTQ+ involvement in local and global societal issues and activities, provide social welfare and environmental service organizations with much needed volunteer labor in support of their worthy endeavors, and serve as a vehicle to bring people of different backgrounds together for a shared purpose,” according to the Gay for Good website.
In its early days, Gay for Good focused on small, local initiatives. Volunteers participated in park clean-ups, food drives and community events, gradually building a reputation for reliability and dedication. These initial efforts were instrumental in laying the foundation for what would become a national movement.
As Gay for Good grew, so did its ambitions. By 2013, Gay for Good had established chapters in several major cities, including Los Angeles, New York and Chicago. Each chapter operated with a high degree of autonomy, allowing them to address specific needs within each of their communities while staying true to the overarching mission of Gay for Good.
Growth brought about a wave of new volunteers and partnerships, collaborating with a diverse array of nonprofits, schools and civic organizations. This period was marked by a series of high-profile projects, such as the renovation of a community center in New York City providing resources for homeless LGBTQ+ youth and a large-scale environmental clean-up in Los Angeles with the Los Angeles Waterkeeper.
One of the most significant milestones in the organization’s history came in 2015 when the U.S. Supreme Court’s landmark decision in Obergefell v. Hodges legalized same-sex marriage nationwide. This victory for LGBTQ+ rights invigorated the organization and its supporters, leading to a surge in volunteerism and community engagement. Gay for Good leveraged this momentum to expand its programs and deepen its impact, launching educational workshops and advocacy campaigns aimed at addressing broader social issues such as homelessness, mental health and racial justice.
The organization welcomes volunteers from all backgrounds, emphasizing that their mission transcends sexual orientation and gender identity. This inclusive approach has been key to breaking down barriers and building alliances across diverse communities.
Triangle Gay for Good
The Raleigh-Durham chapter of Gay for Good was originally established in 2014 as ReachOUT NC, which was founded to connect members of the LGBTQ+ community with others in the Triangle through volunteer opportunities.
“When I moved back to Raleigh from San Francisco, I wanted to build a more constructive outlet as a way for people to get together and give back into the community,” said Michael Wilson, the founder of ReachOUT NC.
ReachOUT NC officially partnered with Gay For Good in 2019 with their first projects, including volunteering with the Miracle League of the Triangle and adding to the pantry of Alliance of AIDS Services-Carolina.
As word spread about the Raleigh-Durham chapter, the number of volunteers grew. The chapter diversified its efforts, participating in environmental clean-ups, supporting local shelters and engaging in educational outreach. One notable project was their collaboration with the Durham Literacy Center, where volunteers provided tutoring and mentorship to adults seeking to improve their literacy skills. This initiative not only helped individuals achieve personal goals but also underscored the chapter’s commitment to education and empowerment.
The chapter gained momentum and visibility through its involvement in high-profile community events. Participation in the Raleigh and Durham Pride festivals became a yearly tradition, offering an opportunity to celebrate LGBTQ+ culture and promote the chapter’s mission. Additionally, the chapter played a pivotal role in organizing the first Triangle LGBTQ+ Volunteer Day, which brought together various LGBTQ+ organizations and allies for a day of service across the region.
In 2019, the chapter launched an initiative focused on supporting LGBTQ+ youth. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by young people in the community, they partnered with the LGBTQ Center of Durham to provide mentorship programs, resources and safe spaces for youth to express themselves. This initiative has been particularly impactful, offering support and guidance to the next generation of leaders.
The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 posed new challenges, but the Raleigh-Durham chapter adapted quickly. Volunteers participated in virtual events, conducted socially distanced service projects, and increased efforts to support local food banks and shelters, addressing the heightened needs of the community during the crisis. This period demonstrated the resilience and dedication of the chapter’s members.
The Raleigh-Durham chapter of Gays for Good has mobilized hundreds of volunteers, completed numerous service projects, and built strong partnerships with local organizations. Their work has not only improved the lives of countless individuals but also created a greater sense of community and understanding.
Upcoming Events for Gay for Good — Raleigh-Durham
Gay for Good Raleigh-Durham recently held its Pride Build Day in partnership with Durham Habitat for Humanity on June 1, bringing awareness of the challanges the local LGBTQ+ community faces with affordable housing.
Habitat for Humanity of Durham hosts Pride Build every June to bring together LGBTQ+ community members and allies to build fair and equitable home ownership opportunities throughout the county.
The Raleigh-Durham chapter of Gay for Good will be working at A Place at the Table, Raleigh’s first pay-what-you-can cafe on June 15. The day is divided into two shifts — breakfast and lunch — and volunteers will be helping cook and serve food. “Our duties will be to build community and connection by [serving] food and drink, washing and drying dishes, cleaning tables, greeting at the door and more,” the event description states. Additional information can be found at https://gayforgood.org/events/g4g-raleigh-durham-a-place-at-the-table-breakfast-shift/.