Pride Center Changes With the Times By John Hayden Photos Courtesy of Sandy DeWitt Photography
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obert Boo is excited about the reopening of The Pride Center at Equality Park. As their CEO he supervises a very detailed plan after more than a year of Covid-related closures, cancellations, and virtual services. “We are so happy to be welcoming back groups and community members into The Pride Center where we can provide them a welcoming, safe space,” he says. “We’ve missed connecting with our community in person.” The Pride Center is reopening in stages based on the situation with the pandemic which means hours, policies and guidelines often change. As part of the ‘new normal’ they’ve hired several customer service receptionists, who greet all visitors. “I am so happy to welcome volunteers, groups, and the community back to Equality Park,” Customer Service Coordinator Samantha McCoy told OutClique. “I missed engaging with the many amazing folks that access services here on campus. This community is a home to so many people, myself included and not one day did I or any of my colleagues forget that.”
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Groups using The Pride Center work with her to conform to capacity limits and modified rules. Another new face is Danny Sprouse, who became their HIV Prevention Manager in March. He knows this mission is more critical now than it has been in years. “As we emerge from the global pandemic, we are made aware once again that HIV continues to remain a significant issue of focus,” he says. “A focus for those living with HIV, to ensure reduced stigma and better health outcomes, as well as a focus for those who are not living with HIV, by continuing the educational efforts around condom use, PrEP services, and U=U.” They are also working to bring back one of the LGBTQ community’s favorite events: Wicked Manors. This year’s theme is “Turn Back Time,” presented by Hunters Nightclub - Wilton Manors and AIDS Healthcare Foundation. The popular block party returns on Halloween and benefits vital programs and services of The Pride Center. “We are going to turn back time and celebrate for the past year and this year. There will be
