The logo for Loving Beyond Understanding's physical location, The Center.

A drop-in, community resource hub, and meeting space

Loving Beyond Understanding headquarters in Grand Junction, Colorado.

The Center

Is a collaborative space for LGBTQ+ people of all ages and genders in the Western Slope. Among many incredible opportunities, events and projects that currently exist for LGBTQ+ to socially connect, The Center was envisioned as a resource hub to bring together LGBTQ+ people utilizing an enthusiastically anti-oppressive philosophy. The space was chosen for its accessibility features and was thoughtfully designed in recognition of the intersecting spaces queer people occupy and engineered to promote a sense of belonging and connectivity for all queer, trans and nonbinary people.

Currently we feature:

Daily drop-in hours for youth ages 13-25 from 4PM-7PM, Sunday through Friday.
On-Site LGBTQ+ specialized resource navigation.
All-ages programming throughout the week
Monthly Potlucks and Events
Enjoy some coffee while you browse through our lovely library.
Coffee Lounge, Meeting Space, Event Room available for reservation for queer centric groups and activities.

Youth Drop-In Space

The Center is open from 4-7 every day (except for Saturday) and is available for LGBTQ+ youth ages 13-25 to get connected to resources and social support. Our youth only room features a Nintendo Switch, a drag/costume closet, an impressively stocked supply of arts and crafts and board games. Our front area features a small coffee shop setting and a kitchen where youth can grab a snack and relax. Our space includes a television and a growing “Banned Book Biblioteca.”

Hub for all ages

The vision for The Center is to both serve as a safe collaborative space for queer people to exist freely, but also a place where community happens. We invite people to take ownership in this space, create groups to share interest with other LGBTQ+ people, be free to create, connect and do community.

We host signature monthly events to celebrate community, and monthly potlucks specifically designed to be intergenerational and family friendly.

Our programming method begins with a collaborative process where we work with local leaders to help them develop and direct their own events, activities and groups. Our goal is to empower members of our community to take charge in designing their own space. Our needs are diverse, and our interests are varied. Our current programming schedule features different queer related affinity spaces and groups for folks with shared interests. Please see our Programming tab for more information.

I am looking for a safe place for my group to meet.

Email us for more information.
* All events hosted by The Center at Loving Beyond Understanding and collaborators unless otherwise noted

Center Happenings

Community Groups

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Banned Book Club
Group facilitated meeting to discuss the banned book of the month.
Every Other Monday 4:30-6

Join our group as we liberate queer joy and engage in a culture that the anti-queer agenda is actively seeking to censor. Each month we will read a new book that has historically or (unfortunately) is actively being banned.

LGBTQ+ Dungeons and Dragons
Gay adventures and fun role play!
Wednesdays and Thursdays 4-7

Looking to have an adventure? Join our D&D group as we embark on queer journeys saving kingdoms and doing magical things

Polyamory Book Club
Group meeting to connect and discuss poly-oriented literature.
Last Wednesday of every month 6-7

Our very own locally famous Lehua La’awill be hosting the Poly Book club starting in February! Wanna learn aboutbreaking free from heteronormative relationship structures in a way that isequitable and genuine? Seeking solidarity with other like-minded folks who wantto break through normative expectations?  Join In!

Learn how to get into the world of drag!
Every Friday 4-5

Whether you’re a regular at amateur night, or just curious about starting out, Join nationally recognized, award-winning drag queen Victoria Valentine as she walks you through the history, practice and werk it takes to perform in this incredible art form!

Potluck Thursdays
Intergenerational and family friendly potluck
Every Third Thursday 4-6

Every month, we wanted to give the community a chance to connect with one another and build community. Coinciding with our Silver Fox program, Potluck Thursdays is an opportunity for you to eat some yummy food and interact with a group of incredible people from different perspectives and backgrounds.

Got an idea for a cool community event?
Let US KNOW

Center Happenings

Parents and Youth

Little Unicorns
Preteen social support
Tuesday 5-7; Sunday 4-6

This program was designed for youth ages 13 and under seeking social support with other members of the LGBTQ community. Coordinated by experienced professionals, our mentors are background checked and CPR certified and eager to create a welcoming and empowering environment for young LGBTQ people who are looking for some connection and friendship.

Seeking support for your trans or gender diverse youth?
Every Third Sunday 4-6

TransParent meets on the third Sunday of each month, to hold a book discussion or toview a movie together that focuses on the narrative of a trans child and theirfamily.

Got an idea for a cool Parents or Youth event?
Let US KNOW

Center Happenings

Elders

Elder support for LGBTQ+ people 55+
Got an idea for a cool Elders event?
Let US KNOW

Upcoming Happenings

Stay Tuned

Open Mic, Poetry Slams, Gayme Nights
Crochet and Needlework Circle
Latin@ LGBTQ+ Support

We have services

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I wanna get involved and help.

Dedicated Resource Staff

We’ve got your back just cause you’re you.

Our experienced community resource navigator Li is positioned to help you get connected to whatever it is you need to thrive. Whether you need help navigating mental or physical health systems, accessing housing assistance or finding affirming providers; we partner with a diverse coalition of agencies and individuals who can rise to meet the needs of our communities.

Get a hold of Li!
Li Peake

Frequently Asked Questions

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With your support we can do anything

At Loving Beyond Understanding, we know the transformative power of community and collaboration. Your contribution enables us to meet the intersecting needs of our community, promote access to resources, and protect queer spaces like The Center. Please help us achieve our mission to be a platform for queer people to thrive.