To be ‘out front’ means to be honest. To be visible. To lead.

Since 1987, OutFront Kalamazoo has worked to advance social justice, build coalitions, change hearts and open minds in Kalamazoo County so that all people can live authentically and free from discrimination regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation.

OutFront Kalamazoo provides a safe and welcoming environment with a wide range of programs and services. We offer a place to be seen and heard and an opportunity to join with others who desire to live unapologetically, #AlwaysOutFront.

Our Mission

To create a just, inclusive, equitable, and supportive environment for people of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and expressions.

Our Vision

A community that celebrates diversity and embraces equality.

Our History

OutFront Kalamazoo was founded as the Kalamazoo Gay Lesbian Resource Center in 1987 as a non-profit, charitable organization serving the LGBTQIA+ community in Kalamazoo County and its surrounding areas. From humble beginnings with a Lesbian/Gay Resource Line and a simple two-page newsletter, the organization has grown thanks to our partners, donors, advocates, volunteers, and friends:

  • 1992: Our first Youth Group

  • 1997: Our first office in the CARES building

  • 1999: Our first full-time staff member, Sharon Roepke

  • 2005: Our work was honored by the Triangle Foundation

  • 2008: Our first Kalamazoo Pride was held at Arcadia Creek Festival Place

  • 2017: Our name was changed to OutFront Kalamazoo and we moved to to 340 South Rose Street in Downtown Kalamazoo

  • 2022: Our Legacy House launched

  • 2025: We moved to our first independently owned location at 1020 South Westnedge Avenue in the Vine Neighbhorhood