Chris Bartlett was introduced as the new executive director of the William Way LGBT Community Center at its annual Building Bash last Saturday. This is a great appointment, since it combines the new with the old and maintains an element of continuity to the center.
Chris has a tough job ahead of him and some big shoes to fill, but he’s up to the task. After all, he’s had success with a number of organizations in the community, from Safeguards to his most recent position at The Delaware Valley Legacy Fund as interim co-executive director.
And that last position most likely prepared him for the center. After all, an evolving center must constantly raise funds for new and improved programming, not to mention the funds it takes to operate a beautiful, historic building.
And that is another reason Chris is so right for this job. The center is all about what the community is about. That changes — as it should — as the community and the center evolve. We cannot be afraid of change. We should be leading that parade because change is what we are asking society for when we ask for equality. Let’s make that, demand equality.
If you have a little free time, take a walk over to the center. If you haven’t seen it lately, you’re in for a pleasant surprise. It’s become a major asset to the neighborhood and makes you proud as soon as you enter the elegant lobby. While you’re there, stop by and see Chris. Feel free to tell him what you feel the center can do or what you think can be improved. Also, tell him how you might be willing to volunteer to make it better for all of us.
This week is Gay Pride week. Can you think of a better time to get involved with your community and a better place than the community center, the heart of our community in the heart of the Gayborhood?
The center has grown and improved each and every year. Chris has a tough job ahead of him and it’s up to each of us to help him along. Because that is what community is all about. It gave me a sense of pride as Chris addressed the crowd at the Building Bash as the new executive director. It was a great way to start Gay Pride month!
Mark Segal is PGN publisher. He can be reached at [email protected].