Affirmations Program Director Passes The Torch

Affirmations Lesbian and Gay Community Center
195 West Nine Mile, Ferndale, MI 48220
Phone: 248.398.7105 Fax: 248.541.1943
Email: info@GoAffirmations.org Web: www.GoAffirmations.org



Date: May 16, 2005

Contact: Kathleen LaTosch
Special Events / Marketing Director
248-398-7105 ext. 15

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

AFFIRMATIONS PROGRAM DIRECTOR PASSES THE TORCH
FERNDALE, Mich. – After close to five years of service to Affirmations Lesbian and Gay Community, Program Director Michael Larson recently announced that it’s time to pass the torch to another energetic person and move on. Having accomplished what he set out to do at Affirmations, he says “I feel like I did accomplish those things and now it’s time to pass the torch.”

Initially hired in October of 2000 to run the Youth Services Program, he quickly moved into the role of Program Director where he was responsible for supervising a staff of three, organizing activities and programs for the 200 people who came to the Center each week, and getting the art gallery back on its feet. Five years later, the staff of three has grown to ten and the 200 people coming to the Center each week has grown to over 600. Moreover, he now heads a flourishing art gallery that has seen more than 30 artists exhibit their work, and has been featured on Detroit’s National Public Radio, WDET.

Under his direction the Center has added four new programs areas – health services, older adult services, family activities and community outreach – more than tripling participation at Affirmations. The youth program has expanded service hours from four a week in 2000 to 20 hours a week in 2005. YEP nights have grown so successfully, that attendance is often at its maximum capacity.

What will he miss the most? In his signature quiet and thoughtful way, he said, “If I had to name three things, I’d have to say that I’ll always have a special place in my heart for the youth program. The youth are so dynamic and inspiring; it’s been rewarding to be able to work so closely with that program. Coming OUT Over Coffee and the Pittmann-Puckett Art Gallery would definitely be on my list too.” But Larson doesn’t expect to miss Affirmations too much – he will continue serving on two of the organization’s planning committees to help move into the new building.

“But I will certainly miss him,” said Leslie Thompson, Executive Director of Affirmations. “Michael came to Affirmations during a very turbulent time and together we smoothed out the edges and got the organization back on track. His wisdom and insight will be greatly missed.”

Larson plans to stay on at Affirmations while the organization conducts a national search for a new program director and then assist in the training of that person. “One of my hopes is that the community recognizes the importance of the Center and embraces the person who comes after me,” said Larson. When asked what his plans are after leaving Affirmations, with a relaxed smile, he said, “I have several things in the works, but I might also just take a break and spend some time pulling weeds in my garden.”

Affirmations Lesbian and Gay Community Center, based in the Detroit suburb of Ferndale, has been in operation since 1989 and provides a variety of programs, services and social opportunities for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender individuals residing in Southeastern Michigan. Affirmations’ mission is to provide a welcoming place to every day people where they can have fun, learn, socialize, grow, be supported and find acceptance.

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