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The LGBTQ nonprofit youth organization one•n•ten has announced a $275,000 gift from The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation to complete build out on a new youth center. The Youth Center will serve as a hub of activities and support efforts to help youth ages 14-24 deal with challenges they may face from their families, their communities, their own self-discovery and other societal difficulties.
Ribbon cutting ceremony at one-n-ten youth center. Photo by Randy and Sophia Gonzales-Bingham.
“Renee and I support one•n•ten’s steadfast efforts to break down prejudices and bring greater acceptance to our entire community,” said American entrepreneur and philanthropist Bob Parsons. “The new youth center will be a safe harbor and place of inclusion for LGTBQ youth who, far too often, experience a higher risk of rejection, violence, depression and homelessness.”
The new 5,000-square-foot space is located in the Parsons Center for Health and Wellness (The Center) in downtown Phoenix on a light rail stop, making it easily accessible to even more youth in the Phoenix Metro area. The Center has become a refuge for the LGBTQ community in the past few years, housing a number of organizations that offer complimentary services and support. A special ribbon cutting ceremony for the new space is set for September 20 at noon. Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton is expected to be on hand for the grand opening.
Many of one•n•ten’s administrative offices and several of the organization’s other services have also relocated to The Center, including its Q High program which serves LGBTQ teens seeking alternative settings from more traditional high schools.
“We couldn’t be more thrilled,” said Linda Elliott, executive director for one•n•ten. “Support from The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation has allowed us to build a special place for our youth to gather, find their self-confidence and get the support they need to be vibrant, contributing citizens. It is a huge, huge gift.”
Courtesy of The Parsons Center for Health and Wellness
A long-time supporter of one•n•ten, The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation has granted nearly $900,000 to the organization over the past several years. Previous gifts include a $500,000 grant to support one•n•ten’s youth housing services and another $50,000 for the organization’s annual Camp OUTdoors! program.
“We are happy to continue our support for one•n•ten and its efforts to help create a world where LGBTQ youth are embraced for who they are, and empowered to become thriving adults and community leaders,” said businesswoman and philanthropist Renee Parsons.
The new Youth Center, which is expected to be completed in early September, will host daily programs and support services and serve as a safe “hang out” for at-risk youth and young adults. To learn more, visit onenten.org.
