Crafting Positive Change

The Need for Volusia Pride.

In a time of rising anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, increasing hate crimes, and persistent discrimination, the need for a strong, visible, and supportive LGBTQ+ community space has never been greater. Across Florida and the nation, policies targeting LGBTQ+ individuals are fostering a climate of fear, isolation, and marginalization.

  • A Growing Culture of Fear: Laws restricting LGBTQ+ rights—banning books, censoring discussions about identity in schools, and targeting transgender healthcare—are sending a clear message from lawmakers that LGBTQ+ people are unwelcome. This systemic discrimination is forcing many into silence, depriving them of the community and affirmation they need to thrive.

  • A Mental Health Crisis: LGBTQ+ individuals, especially youth, face alarmingly high rates of depression and suicide. According to The Trevor Project, 41% of LGBTQ+ youth seriously considered suicide in the past year, with even higher rates among transgender and nonbinary individuals. The fear of being rejected, harassed, or even criminalized simply for being themselves is driving young people to despair.

  • Escalating Hate Crimes: The FBI reports a sharp increase in hate crimes against LGBTQ+ people, with violent attacks and harassment becoming more common. Many individuals no longer feel safe in their own neighborhoods, workplaces, or schools.

Now, more than ever, LGBTQ+ individuals in Volusia County need a safe space where they are valued, supported, and empowered. Volusia Pride provides that space. We are more than an organization—we are a lifeline.

By investing in Volusia Pride, we can combat isolation, foster resilience, and create a future where LGBTQ+ people in our community can live openly and authentically—without fear.

Our mission is to be a voice for the voiceless by fostering belonging, serving the community, advancing equality, and empowering youth in Volusia County and beyond.

Our Impact.

Volusia Pride is more than just an organization—it is a movement that has transformed the local landscape for LGBTQ+ individuals, families, and allies. Through advocacy, education, and community-building, we have fostered a more inclusive and accepting environment in Volusia County. Our programs provide essential resources, from youth leadership training to support groups and educational workshops, empowering individuals of all ages to live authentically and with pride.

We create safe spaces where LGBTQ+ people can connect, celebrate, and find support, ensuring that no one has to feel alone. Volusia Pride also works tirelessly to craft positive change across the broader community, partnering with schools, businesses, and local organizations to promote inclusivity and equity. From vibrant events like our annual Love is Love Pride Festival to initiatives that uplift and protect LGBTQ+ rights, our impact is visible in the growing sense of belonging and acceptance across the region.

Together, we are crafting a future where everyone, regardless of who they love or how they identify, can thrive.

  • "Volusia Pride has played an essential role in helping my family and I find new lifelong friends and add to our ever growing chosen family. Through their various weekly and annual events, and with the recent opening of the community space, they have given us an opportunity to be a part of this community in a way that personally makes me feel like I am back home in Hawaii and a lot less homesick."

    Kamea B.

  • "I got involved with Volusia Pride because I wanted my children to be able to walk down the street holding the hand of whoever they love—without fear. Volusia Pride has played a vital role in building a vibrant, welcoming community here in DeLand, where everyone can feel safe, accepted, and celebrated for who they are. Through this incredible organization, I’ve built lifelong friendships and found a sense of belonging that I never knew was possible. Volusia Pride is truly making a difference, and I’m grateful to be part of its mission."

    Ann-Marie W.

  • "I was confused and floundering in my identity, as it pertained to sexuality. I had heard about Volusia Pride's Love is Love Fest in early 2022, and discovered there were several events spanning a week or two. I was moved by the acceptance, kindness, and tender and welcoming hearts of the people I met at these events. All of this is to say, it took a lot for me to show up - and keep showing up in the beginning - to these events, due to my own internal judgements about not aligning with the mainstream. Simply by existing, (there was no official physical headquarters at the time), Volusia Pride consistently enabled me to come to peace with myself, as an individual and as a human being in the world, through access and interaction with the local LGBTQIA+ community. Since then, I've had the privilege to observe and participate as Volusia Pride grew and evolved into providing more activities and formal support groups, benefitting both the LGBTQ community and the local community at large. May it continue to build bridges and understanding far into the future. Thank you."

    J.D.

  • "DeLand Pride, which has now expanded to be Volusia Pride, was an extremely important aspect of our family’s decision to move back to DeLand. Seeing DeLand change over the decades has been wonderful, and as a queer and multiracial family, we feel more welcome then ever in DeLand because of the great work that Volusia Pride does. Shortly after we moved here we went to our first DeLand Pride event and were welcomed immediately. Now, years later our bonds with Volusia Pride and our community have only grown deeper and stronger. The events that are available at the Volusia Pride space, are very important to our family, and many others. Our teenage son has made so many good friends, and now has an extended network of Aunties and Uncles that care and supports him. We attend events weekly at the Volusia Pride space where we learn together, play together, and support each other, all while giving back to the community. Volusia Pride is my chosen family, and I’m humbled to be part of such a wonderful community of dedicated and caring people."

    Aaron B.

  • "Volusia Pride is family that nurtures my family and me. Friends that become family as we celebrate ourselves, our lives, our loves, knowing we are seen and loved for all we are. Sharing a love for our community and confidence together that we can nurture and support our local community, seen, heard and part of the whole. I am home, and I love it. Thanks to DeLand and Volusia Pride."

    Helen S.

Our Programs.

  • Volusia Pride Community Space is dedicated to fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for the LGBTQ+ community and allies in Volusia County.

    Our aim is to empower individuals, celebrate diversity, and promote equality through a variety of programs, events, and resources.

    Volusia Pride is dedicated to supporting the mental health and wellness of our LGBTQ+ community. Our center will offer both individual and group counseling services, facilitated by compassionate counselors and therapists from our local community. These services are designed to provide a safe, affirming space for individuals seeking guidance, support, or simply someone to talk to.

    Our Lifestyle & Wellness Coaching services provide a supportive, inclusive, and accessible approach to health, designed to empower individuals of all backgrounds, abilities, and identities.

    Volusia Pride offers support groups for individuals, families, and allies within the LGBTQ+ community. The groups address various topics, including the needs of our BIPOC Community Members, Youth and Families, Mental health, and Allyship.

    The Volusia Pride Community Space hosts social events and pride celebrations throughout the year. The space hosts a variety of engaging activities, from lively celebrations to intimate social gatherings that foster friendships and connections. These gatherings create a warm, welcoming atmosphere where individuals can express their identities, share their stories, and celebrate the rich diversity of our community. The Volusia Pride Community Space is dedicated to building connections and empowering everyone to embrace their authentic selves.

  • Our Advocacy and Education programming works to develop programs to fill needs gaps in our area, provide information and referral services, advocate for change, and support those advocating for change through political action, public education, and lending support to causes and organizations that align with our values.

    Advocacy is an ongoing and ever changing need in our community. Our Advocacy Team responds to current events and community requests as the need arises. The goal of the Advocacy Team is to help the community find their voice and support individuals and systems in the fight to create more inclusive and equitable policy and public opinion.

  • Our Community Outreach and Special Events programming seeks to identify needs in the community, establish partnerships with community members, organizations and businesses, and develop social and networking opportunities for the LGBTQ+ community and their allies.

    Our mission drives us to advocate for and support our community. To do this we strive to build partnerships with other community organizations whose missions and values align.

    Visibility matters and there is no better way to celebrate our Pride, our History, and our Love than with special events. Our Special Events programming organizes large community events that appeal to people of diverse backgrounds while promoting awareness, respect, diversity, and equity.

  • Our Neighbors Helping Neighbors programming supports local community organizations in their work to create positive change throughout the community, focusing on our Community Partners that help to fulfill identified needs gaps. This program also organizes fundraising events to assist in achieving those goals.

    Our initiatives include:

    • The Austin Waserman Art Grant

    • Stuff the Bus School Supply Drive

    • Feets and Seats Undergarments Drive

    • Holiday Helpers Gift Drive

    • Pride 4 Paws Pet Supply Drive

  • Our Youth and Family programming aims to encourage future leaders by creating safe spaces for young people to connect and developing pathways to engage, support, mentor, and nurture queer youth, their allies, and their families.

    Our Youth and Family Programs include youth socials, support groups, and events.

    The Volusia-Flagler Rainbow Alliance Scholarship Program offers scholarships to LGBTQ+ students in Volusia and Flagler County attending or planning to attend a college, university, or post-secondary vocational or technical program, including apprenticeship programs.

    And the OUTfront Youth Leadership Program is focused on empowering, educating, mentoring, and advising high school aged youth throughout their journey of queer advocacy in their school, community, and beyond.

  • We are committed to preserving LGBTQ+ history in Volusia County and beyond. We have partnered with the West Volusia Historical Society to create a series of oral histories, exploring the life and experiences of members of the LGBTQ+ West Volusia community.

Here are some of the things we are able to do because of your support…

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Through our programs, events, and advocacy, we continue to make a meaningful impact:

  • Our Volusia Pride Community Space welcomes over 250 visitors each month, serving as a vital hub for connection, support, and resources. We also host 12 active support groups and clubs, providing safe spaces for peer support and engagement.

  • In addition to our programs and events in our Community Space, we organize 10 monthly community events, creating opportunities for education, celebration, and advocacy throughout the year.

  • Our Love is Love Pride Fest brought together 900 attendees, fostering visibility, joy, and a sense of belonging for all.

  • Volusia Pride supports three chapters across Volusia County, ensuring our work is accessible across the region.

  • The Volusia Flagler Rainbow Alliance awarded 14 scholarships in 2024, helping LGBTQ+ students achieve their educational goals.

  • Through our Neighbors Helping Neighbors initiative, we provide essential aid to 9 community organizations, directly supporting over 1,000 individuals in need.

Our work is only possible because of the dedication of our supporters, volunteers, and community partners. Together, we are crafting a future where every LGBTQ+ person in Volusia County feels safe, valued, and empowered.

Our Vision for the Future.

Fostering Belonging

Fostering Belonging focuses on creating an inclusive environment where every individual feels valued, respected, and authentically welcomed. It emphasizes building a culture of connection and mutual support, ensuring that all members of our community can thrive and contribute meaningfully.

Our initiatives aim to amplify underrepresented voices, highlighting the importance of cultural competence, and creating accessible spaces.

Fostering belonging enhances individual well-being and strengthens collective creativity, cohesion, and resilience.

  • As part of our 10-Year Anniversary celebrations, we will prioritize hosting our inaugural Pride Parade and securing a prominent location for a public mural to join the Downtown DeLand Mural Walk, ensuring our message of inclusion and pride resonates for years to come.

  • We will offer a broader range of engaging opportunities that inspire connection, growth, and creating safe spaces where youth can feel supported. These efforts include adding more multigenerational programming to our existing calendar of events.

  • Community events have been the cornerstone of our organization from the very beginning, and they will remain a vital part of our efforts, offering a space where individuals can be their authentic selves and find representation year-round. In celebration of our 10-Year Anniversary, we will highlight the positive impact we've made in Volusia County, while providing a clear vision of our goals and aspirations for the next decade.

  • Our goal is to ensure that everyone has the chance to find meaningful connections and a supportive community where they feel valued and understood.

Serving the Community

Serving the Community focuses on addressing the needs of the broader community by fostering meaningful relationships, delivering impactful programs, and leveraging resources to create positive change. It emphasizes collaboration with community members, organizations, and stakeholders to identify challenges and opportunities, ensuring that efforts are aligned with the community’s goals and values.

By prioritizing service to the community we demonstrate our commitment to being a positive force for change, strengthening trust and mutual support while enhancing the well-being and resilience in the communities we serve.

  • These Guides will cover a wide range of topics, designed to help individuals navigate systems and situations with greater ease and confidence. These guides will serve as valuable tools for our community, providing practical information and support when it's needed most.

  • In addition, we will take time to reevaluate the program’s impact, exploring new and innovative ways to enhance its effectiveness and better serve our community through these initiatives. By partnering with other local organizations, we will ensure that our efforts stay adaptable and responsive to the ever-evolving needs of those we serve. Through these collaborative efforts, we aim to build a stronger, more unified support system that uplifts everyone in our community, creating lasting and meaningful change for all.

  • These initiatives are designed to provide essential support and empowerment to individuals and families in need, ensuring that everyone in our community has access to the critical resources they need to thrive. Our expanded mental health services will offer professional support and counseling, while the clothing closet and food pantry will provide immediate relief to those facing economic hardships. Additionally, our educational workshops will equip individuals with the tools and knowledge to improve their lives and build a stronger, more resilient community. By addressing basic needs alongside mental health and educational support, we will create a holistic approach to community care that promotes well-being, self-sufficiency, and long-term success.

Advancing Equality

Advancing Equality is centered on promoting fairness, equity, and justice for all individuals by addressing systemic barriers, reducing disparities, and ensuring equal opportunities for success.

We strive to create policies, programs, and initiatives that actively combat discrimination and bias, while fostering a culture of inclusion where everyone can thrive regardless of their background, identity, or circumstances.

By prioritizing this work, we can be a part of creating a more just and inclusive society, where diversity is celebrated, and all individuals have the chance to reach their full potential.

  • Including initiative like our DEI Book Giveaway and LGBTQ+ History Program, these initiatives will play a critical role in preserving and celebrating LGBTQ+ stories, ensuring that our history is recognized, valued, and shared for future generations.

  • This program aims to address barriers to accessing affirming mental health care with a dedicated team of therapists and coaches committed to improving the lives of LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and transgender community members. By offering personalized support and accessible resources, we aim to create a safe, inclusive space where individuals can seek healing, guidance, and empowerment.

  • This platform will provide young people with an opportunity to express themselves, share their stories, and showcase their talents, while fostering a sense of ownership and empowerment within their community.

Empowering Youth

Empowering Youth focuses on equipping young people with the skills, resources, and opportunities they need to thrive and lead meaningful, impactful lives.

Our programs emphasize fostering confidence, resilience, and a sense of agency in youth, enabling them to take charge of their futures and contribute positively to their communities.

By cultivating a supportive environment where young people can explore their passions, build competencies, and form connections, empowering youth ensures the development of a generation capable of driving social progress and innovation.

  • By listening to their perspectives, we aim to create programs and initiatives that truly reflect their needs and aspirations. Additionally, we will continue to partner with local universities to create internship opportunities that empower students to engage politically on LGBTQ+ issues, fostering the next generation of leaders and advocates.

  • We will continue to expand our fundraising efforts for the Volusia-Flagler Rainbow Alliance Scholarship Program, enabling us to provide more scholarships for higher education and support the academic success of LGBTQ+ youth. In addition, we will develop a Youth Leadership After-School Program and a Summer Institute in collaboration with the Stetson University Bonner Program. These initiatives will provide young people with leadership training, mentorship, and opportunities to engage in community-building and social justice work.

  • Our goal is to create an environment where young people can build meaningful relationships, develop leadership skills, and find support as they grow and connect with one another. Through these efforts, we aim to foster a strong sense of community and empowerment for youth in our area.

  • By placing the direction of our youth programs directly in the hands of young people, we will empower them to shape initiatives that reflect their needs, ideas, and aspirations. This approach will ensure that our programs are youth-driven, fostering a sense of ownership, responsibility, and leadership among the next generation of advocates.

2025 Funding Needs.

Volusia Pride is a volunteer-run organization, driven by passionate individuals committed to fostering a more inclusive and supportive community. Because we operate without paid staff, we are able to prioritize every dollar raised toward direct program support—ensuring that resources go where they are needed most. From youth leadership programs to vital community programs, our financial needs are centered on sustaining and expanding the impact of our programs.

The 2025 budget is divided into several key areas that are integral to achieving Volusia Pride’s mission.

Administrative costs, totaling $8,000, are essential for ensuring the organization operates within legal and regulatory standards while maintaining a functional office to support daily operations. These expenses include liability insurance, nonprofit compliance and regulatory fees, as well as general office operating expenses.

Community Space Expenses, amounting to $40,000, are critical to providing a safe, accessible, and welcoming space for LGBTQ+ individuals to gather, access resources, and participate in events that build community. These expenses include rent, security, utilities, and supplies for hosting events.

Advocacy & Education Expenses, set at $15,000, support efforts to educate the broader community on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), and to advocate for policies that protect and empower the LGBTQ+ community. These expenses include funds allocated for the DEI Book Giveaway, advocacy events, training and presentation costs, and travel expenses for state lobby days and local county and city meetings.

Youth Outreach and Support Expenses, totaling $35,000, are pivotal for fostering the next generation of LGBTQ+ leaders through scholarships, mentorship programs, and events that offer youth a sense of belonging and opportunities for personal growth. These expenses include VFRA Scholarships, the Youth Outreach Director's stipend, OUTfront Youth Leadership Program activities, and youth-focused events such as Prom and social gatherings

Mental Health Programming expenses, amounting to $30,000, are crucial for addressing the unique mental health needs of the LGBTQ+ community, offering essential services and support to improve overall wellness. These expenses include the program development coordinator stipend and startup technology costs to launch mental health services.

Finally, Community Outreach and Events, budgeted at $39,500, are vital for creating high-profile events and ongoing community initiatives that strengthen connections within the LGBTQ+ community, provide necessary resources, and raise visibility for the organization’s mission. These expenses include large events like the Love is Love Pride Festival and Volusia Pride Pageant, Neighbors Helping Neighbors donations, monthly community events, and the management of the Volusia Resource Directory.

Together, these areas enable Volusia Pride to promote inclusivity, education, youth empowerment, and mental health advocacy, which are central to the organization's vision and goals.

Building Pride

Our organization relies on donations of all sizes to continue our work in the community and empower our programming.

Our annual sponsors help create and support our diverse and inclusive community and community partnerships are instrumental for us to achieve our goals.

Our Leadership Team and Volunteer Staff.

At Volusia Pride, we believe that an empowered, diverse, and dedicated leadership team is essential to fostering a thriving organization. Our leadership is composed of passionate individuals who bring a wealth of experience in advocacy, nonprofit management, and community engagement. From organizing inclusive events to spearheading educational initiatives and youth programs, their dedication fuels the growth of our organization. As we continue to expand our impact—particularly through the development of a new LGBTQ+ Community Space—strong leadership will be the foundation of that progress.

Our leadership and staff is made up of our 8 member working Board of Directors, 2 Youth Outreach Coordinators, 3 Interns, and 2 Community Space Volunteer Staff. Of our 15 member leadership and staff team, 87% identify as part of the LGBTQ+ Community, 27% identify as part of the Trans/GNC Community, 40% identify as members of the BIPOC Community, and 27% identify as part of the Disability Community.

  • Ann-Marie Willacker

    President

  • Heather McLean

    Vice President

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Location
235 North Amelia Ave. Unit B
DeLand, Florida 32724