New Beacon of Support: DC LGBTQ Center Opens as a Haven for Healing and Community

Welcome to a New Beginning

The sun shone brightly on Washington’s Shaw neighborhood as the doors of the new DC LGBTQ Center swung open for the first time. Nestled in the refurbished Holzbeierlein Bakery warehouse, this vibrant space marks a fresh start for the community. After years of operating in a less-than-ideal location, the Center has moved from 14th Street to a spacious new home on Wiltberger St, N.W. Executive Director Kimberley Bush describes this move not just as a relocation, but as a promise of hope and support.

Kimberley Bush outlined the Center’s mission during the opening on April 26: to nurture a thriving LGBTQ community in the nation’s capital. With enhanced resources and a broadened reach, the Center is now poised to make an even greater impact on the lives of LGBTQ individuals in Washington, D.C.

A Home for the Community

“This is more than just a building,” Bush said, her smile radiant as community members gathered beneath the vibrant inflatable rainbow arch that marks the entrance. “It’s a home—a welcoming space we have long dreamed of. This location is an incredible achievement, one that aligns with our intention to support our LGBTQ siblings who need it most.”

The new Center provides a visible and accessible hub for the community, amplifying efforts that began at the Reeves Center. With its new address, 1828 Wiltberger St., N.W., the Center is designed to be a beacon of support, collaboration, and empowerment.

Innovating for Inclusivity

Inside, the Center houses over 7,000 square feet of functional space tailored to meet diverse community needs. Nine additional partner organizations have found a home here, fostering a collaborative environment unlike any other in the U.S. “We wanted to create a model where we could provide comprehensive support without overshadowing other organizations,” Bush explained. “Every group under our roof continues its unique mission, benefiting from shared resources and a unified vision.”

A Space for Every Need

From critical healthcare rooms for HIV and STI testing to therapy spaces and a boutique offering professional attire, the Center serves as a one-stop support system. “We can’t do everything, but we can be a vital outpost for other organizations,” Bush emphasized. “Our expansion allows us to spread love, kindness, and support even further.”

The Center also includes a food pantry, clothing closet, ADA-accessible shower, mailroom services, and a spacious kitchen. This comprehensive approach addresses essential needs, alleviating stress and helping community members focus on building better lives.

Community and Connection

Bush, who stepped into the Executive Director role in 2022, often witnesses transformative moments as individuals walk through the Center’s doors. “Sometimes people enter unhappy or overwhelmed. Our role is to listen, care, and help them create a plan for a brighter tomorrow,” she said.

The Center is designed to be a sanctuary—a place where anyone, regardless of circumstance, can find peace. Whether it’s enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of tea or accessing vital services, the Center invites everyone to simply be.

Embracing Diversity

The Center places a special emphasis on serving trans, non-binary, Black, and brown individuals who often face erasure. “Allowing people to be themselves is revolutionary,” Bush noted. “We don’t ask them to prove anything or speak unless they wish. We offer them space to just be.”

A Beacon of Hope

Everyday interactions with community members fuel Bush’s passion for the Center’s mission. “Hearing someone say ‘See you tomorrow’ to me signifies hope and continuity where it may not have existed before. It inspires me daily to continue this work.”

The DC LGBTQ Center is more than just a building; it’s a testament to the enduring spirit of community, inclusivity, and love. As it welcomes all with open arms, it stands as a shining example of how space can transform lives and foster a sense of belonging.