QUEERSPACE collective

Representing QUEERSPACE in D.C.! ??

?? It’s GIVING “we did that” vibes! Together, we raised $26,013 for GiveMN day, thanks to 133 gifts and 7 fundraisers! What does this mean? It means we’re building spaces, creating change, and basically being unstoppable — because y’all showed up and showed out! From all of us at QUEERSPACE, thank you! Thanks to your generosity, 2SLGBTQIA+ youth now have a safer, more empowering space to thrive and live their Queer joy. ???? #QUEERSPACE #ThankYou #GTMD24

?? Exciting news! We have over $20,000 in matching gifts for GiveMN day, which means every dollar you donate will go TWICE as far to support our new 2SLGBTQIA+ Youth Center! This center is more than just a building — it’s a lifeline for young people seeking community, acceptance, and mentorship. Let’s take QUEERSPACE to the MAX! Donate today: https://lnkd.in/gHBER7Rm. #GTMD24

Change starts with space — QUEERSPACE. We’re building a future where 2SLGBTQIA+ youth feel safe, seen, and empowered to be their true selves. As our Director of Development & Communications, Elizabeth Olson, reminds us: “We can provide spaces for our young people to feel comfortable and safe, but at the end of the day, if we’re not changing the structures of the world we live in, we’re not solving the problem.” Here’s how we’re creating change at every level: ?? Systemic Change: We advocate for 2SLGBTQIA+ rights in our community, collaborate with organizations to amplify impact, and consult with changemakers to ensure systems evolve to better serve Queer youth. ??? Community Change: We train companies and organizations to create safer, more inclusive spaces. We just built Minnesota’s newest 2SLGBTQIA+ Youth Center — a welcoming hub in Minneapolis where Queer youth find belonging, resources, and joy. ?? Interpersonal Change: Through our mentorship program, we pair Queer youth with Queer adults for support and guidance. Our group workshops provide shared experiences and a vital sense of community. This Give to the Max Day, join us in changing the world. Your donation powers advocacy, builds inclusive spaces, and fosters transformative mentorship for Queer youth. Donate at: https://lnkd.in/gHBER7Rm. All gifts today will be matched up $22,325, doubling your impact! #QUEERSPACE #GTMD24

Together, we stand resolute for Trans justice. Our Executive Director & Founder Nicki Hangsleben joined local 2SLGBTQIA+ leaders to celebrate the passage of the Transgender Day of Remembrance Resolution, championed by Council Member Jenkins, to honor and uplift Trans lives in Minneapolis. Today and always, #TransRightsAreHumanRights. Image: A group of people holding a framed resolution with text overlay, 'Minneapolis Passes Transgender Day of Remembrance Resolution'

That's a wrap for our Blacksmithing Workshop! And let’s just say... yes, you can look fabulous while holding a hammer. ???. Thanks to our talented youth (and a generous assist from the legends at Industrial Arts Mentorship for All), we watched them transform raw iron into hooks, bowls, artwork, and even a hiking stick. To our young blacksmiths: may you continue to carve your path in the world, one glowing piece of metal at a time. Until next time, keep it forged and fabulous.

"If you are a young person, we will look out for you. We will protect you. We will make sure that when you are here, you are safe." - Rep. Leigh Finke Throwback to our fabulous grand opening ceremony and Spirit Day celebration in October! Now, just a month later, we’ve officially opened our doors for young people to find community, resources, and the freedom to be themselves. Whether they’re here for group activities or a quiet moment in our calming room, this space is designed for Queer youth to explore what Queer joy looks like for them. Help us take QUEERSPACE to the max! Invest in our new 2SLGBTQIA+ Youth Center: https://lnkd.in/gHBER7Rm

Thank you to Women in Real Estate Development (WIRED) for joining us last week for lunch and a QUEERSPACE presentation in our new space! It was inspiring to connect with a community of strong, remarkable women and share QUEERSPACE's journey as we opened Minnesota's newest 2SLGBTQIA+ Youth Center. We’re grateful to partner with those who take to heart in building a more inclusive world, both physically and figuratively. Thanks to Hillcrest Development, LLLP for hosting a tour of the Watkins Building! Learn more about our #CreateTheSpace campaign at: https://lnkd.in/grnTZ2ju.

Did you hear the big news? Our 2SLGBTQIA+ Youth Center is open! Come as your authentic self and hang out in our welcoming, inclusive space filled with activities, community, and more. Open hours: ?? 702 W Franklin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55403 ?? Tuesdays & Thursdays, 3-6 PM — for all 2SLGBTQIA+ youth (ages 13-17) ?? Wednesdays, 3-6 PM — for QUEERSPACE Mentors & Mentees only (our mentorship program participants) Visit https://lnkd.in/ghbCaVaF for more info, and share this with any Queer youth looking for a safe hangout spot. #QUEERSPACE #ProtectTransYouth #LGBTQYouth #SafeSpaces

Let's take QUEERSPACE to the max—together, with humility and care. We know this is a tender time for our community. As a nonprofit, we’re obligated to fundraise to keep our programs going, but we also recognize that this ask may feel difficult in the wake of the election. If it feels right, we invite you to make a gift to support our new 2SLGBTQIA+ Youth Center for Give to the Max Day. If financial support isn’t possible, we welcome you to share our message, follow along on our journey, and stand with us in whatever way feels right for you. Every contribution—no matter the size or form—is deeply appreciated by all of us at QUEERSPACE. ?? Donate at https://lnkd.in/gHBER7Rm. All gifts made through November 21 count toward our $50,000 goal to #CreateTheSpace for Queer youth across Minnesota. #GTMD24