The day after Proposition 8 passed in 2008, I heard Los Angeles LGBT Center CEO Lorri L. Jean speak in West Hollywood. After listening to Lorri then see her lead a march around the Mormon Temple in Westwood, I told my friends, “I want to work for that organization!”
I took my first steps towards that in 2014 when I became involved in the AIDS/LifeCycle community and was a cyclist for the 2015 and 2016 rides.
I officially joined The Center in 2017 as the AIDS/LifeCycle donor services specialist. I work with colleagues on the AIDS/LifeCycle team, Finance, and Development, as well as our counterparts at the San Francisco AIDS Foundation to ensure that the gifts from donors and participants get credited accurately and that all aspects of their donation experience is exceptional.
I’ve been thrilled to be part of an organization that is so resilient. Since COVID-19 hit, there has been a feeling of “how” rather than “if” when it comes to continuing to provide services and creating community. There was never a question of whether we would make it through.
Seeing the dedication of the AIDS/LifeCycle community as we’ve started to come back and prepare for the 2022 ride after a couple years off has been inspiring. Participants are stepping up and doing everything they can to ensure that the work of the Center and San Francisco AIDS Foundation continues strong.
Not only have I thoroughly enjoyed being part of the AIDS/LifeCycle community, but I’ve been able to go back to school and earn my Associate’s Degree and start work on my Bachelor’s Degree. I’m very grateful for the support and encouragement I’ve received from my supervisors.
Working for the Center is more of a calling than a 9 to 5 job. If someone wants to make a positive change in the community, and wants a job that speaks to your soul, this is the right place for you.
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Hometown: Riverton, Utah
Year Started Working at Center: 2017
Staff Position: Donor Services Specialist, AIDS/LifeCycle
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