Our mission is to make Indiana a safer and more welcoming place for ALL people, including those who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, or any other type of gender or sexual diversity. We are based in rural Spencer, Indiana.
We welcome everyone to join us as we continue to cultivate a community of compassion and celebration for all people. We are 100% volunteer-powered and are always looking or passionate people who wish to help us achieve our mission.
Our Programs
- The Spencer Pride Festival is an admission-free rural LGBTQ+ pride festival that takes place around Main Street in downtown Spencer, Indiana. The Spencer Pride Festival is the largest rural LGBTQ+ pride event in Indiana. Spencer is the smallest town with such a large LGBTQ+ pride event in the Midwest! The Spencer Pride Festival will take place on October 15, 2022. The Spencer Pride Festival is known for its family-focused and inclusive atmosphere, all in a small town setting.
- In September of 2016, Spencer Pride opened an LGBTQ+ center in downtown Spencer. With this opening, Spencer became the smallest town in America with such a resource. The Spencer Pride commUnity center offers a variety of services to the local community and serves as the main headquarters for Spencer Pride, Inc. The commUnity center includes Unity, our retail shop. Unity is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 AM until 7 PM and is located at 17 E. Franklin Street in Spencer, Indiana.
- Iris Youth Group is intended for LGBTQ+ teens and allies ages 12-19. Iris meets the second and fourth Wednesdays at 5 PM. Iris coordinates an annual alternative prom to create a safe, celebratory space for LGBTQ+ teens and their allies.
Our Outreach
Every year, Spencer Pride donates thousands of dollars to local organizations. In addition, we contribute hundreds of volunteer hours to organizations due to the commitment of our volunteers. Local LGBTQ+ youth have received several thousand dollars in scholarships and awards over the past few years.
We firmly believe that by investing in our community – specifically in local not-for-profit organizations and our youth – we are ensuring the long-term ability of our organization to achieve our mission.
Our Partnerships
Spencer Pride Inc.(SPI) is a proud member of the Owen County Chamber of Commerce and the Indy Rainbow Chamber of Commerce. SPI is also a member of InterPride, the international association of pride organizations; Centerlink, the association of LGBTQ community centers; as well as the United States Association of Prides. SPI is also a founding member of the Spencer Downtown Events Coalition.
Our Strategic Goals
In order to ensure that we are effectively and efficiently working to accomplish our mission, the Board of Directors establishes short- and long-term strategic goals. These goals are reviewed frequently to determine if we are making progress or if adjustments need to be made in our efforts. Our current strategic goals are listed below.
Create Programming Plan for Dedicated Health & Wellness Space
Develop & Implement Advocacy Strategy
Increase Engagement with People Under 30 Years of Age
Establish Individual Leadership Development Plans for Key Organizational Leaders
Accomplishing our goals takes many volunteer hours and financial investment. Individuals or organizations interested in helping to support our needs should contact president Jonathan Balash at Jonathan@SpencerPride.org or via phone at 812-821-3073.