Fact: Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender persons still face prejudice and discrimination in the most basic areas of our lives, and unfortunately this remains very true within Berrien County.

Fact: Not knowing which service providers are friendly and affirming can cause members of our community to delay medical treatment, postpone important legal and financial arrangements, and unknowingly support or contract with agencies who actively undermine our human rights and work against our struggle for equality before the law.

Fact: Increasing numbers of churches, mental health service providers, business persons, and other professionals are truly knowledgeable about our lives, supportive, affirming, welcoming, and deserving of our business.

Fact: A call to the YWCA Out & Affirmation Center can help you locate an affirming therapist or other professional, shop or barter with members of our community and our allies, and rest assured that you that you won't have to hide your identity, defend yourself against ignorance or abusive treatment, or waste your time educating the professional about your life rather than receiving the quality care that you deserve.

Fact: Many of these service providers are listed right here on our website, just one click away: Resource Directory