Workplace Options (WPO), the world’s largest independent provider of holistic wellbeing and employee engagement solutions, partnered with the LGBT Center of Raleigh to provide a home for the Center while the organization’s building undergoes renovation. WPO has been an active supporter and advocator for the LGBT Center of Raleigh for more than a decade. In the past, the collaboration between WPO and the Center has focused on the promotion of Out! Raleigh Pride (previously known as just Out! Raleigh), beginning with the first Out! Raleigh event in 2012.
During the past few years, the LGBT Center of Raleigh, a nonprofit organization that serves, empowers, and advocates for the wellbeing of diverse LGBTQ+ communities, has moved several times. When WPO learned about the Center’s current situation, Alan King, President and CEO, Workplace Options, invited the organization to move to a WPO office.
“WPO and the LGBT Center of Raleigh share much more than office space. Our organizations are aligned in a shared mission and vision,” said King. “WPO and the Center are committed to empowering every person to be their authentic self in every aspect of their life. Both organizations work, every day, to make a transformative difference in people’s lives.” To further WPO’s focus on inclusive workplace cultures, where employers prioritize psychological safety and employees feel valued, WPO acquired TDM in 2023.
The LGBT Center of Raleigh serves and champions the LGBTQIA+ community in the Triangle and beyond. In addition to hosting the annual Out! Raleigh Pride event for 100,000+ attendees, the nonprofit provides various free resources and programs including guidance on housing, health fairs, HIV testing, case management, wellness care packages, and the largest LGBTQIA+ library in the Southeast.
“We would not have been able to continue our operations without WPO’s support,” said Kori Hennessey, Executive Director of the LGBT Center of Raleigh. “With this new space, we can spread out, sort through our library, collect donations for our free gender-affirming clothing closet, invite guests, meet with clients, host programs once again, and so much more!”
The Center’s significant impacts on the LGBTQIA+ community, family, and friends are best reflected through the stories collected: A mother in Texas reached out to the Center before she and her son moved to Raleigh; she needed to know the areas with progressive schools and welcoming neighborhoods.
The LGBT Center of Raleigh: Testimonials
“My trans son attended your wonderful event (Out! Raleigh Pride) with a group of friends; this was his first Pride event ever. I was at home feeling a mixture of pride and anxiety, worried about protestors and/or violence ruining his experience. I’m happy to report that he came home with a huge smile, bag of goodies, and didn’t see/experience ANY negativity or harassment.
Today, I read a Twitter post describing how you wonderful folks used blankets and noise to shield people, like my son, from hate. I just want to thank each and every one of you for these thoughtful acts. It means the world to me that my son was able to enjoy his first Pride event without harassment, and you all made that happen for him. You protected my baby, and that is the best gift a mother could ask for. Thank you thank you thank you- my heroes!”
– Anonymous Parent
“I moved to Raleigh in 2015 in search of a better life, mainly a strong social support system. After spending years neglecting truly wanting to be myself, I immediately searched for the LGBT Center. I was warmly welcomed by two volunteers. They let me take a look at the library and told me about all of the groups offered. I became a volunteer and attended group activities. I made some great friends, laughed a lot, and finally felt like I was making roots here. I appreciate the Center welcoming me, being friendly and warm. It’s really all I needed and sometimes just having someone just be kind goes a million miles. I am finally thriving on my own, and I have to thank the Center for giving me that sense of belonging, one of the most important things for evolving and living your life.”
-Christine
About LGBT Center of Raleigh
The LCBT Center of Raleigh serves, empowers, and advocates for the wellbeing of diverse LGBTQ+ communities in the Triangle and beyond. The Center works to create an inclusive world where LGBTQ+ people are thriving, equal, and valued members of society.
About Workplace Options
Founded in 1982, Workplace Options (WPO) is the largest independent provider of holistic wellbeing solutions. Through customized programs, and a comprehensive global network of credentialed providers and professionals, WPO supports individuals to become healthier, happier, and more productive both personally and professionally. Trusted by 57 percent of Fortune 500 companies, WPO delivers high-quality care digitally and in-person to more than 83 million people across 113,000 organizations in more than 200 countries and territories.
