Edited by Mikkel Hyldebrandt
In Atlanta, a network of inspiring organizations stands as heroes for the LGBTQ+ community, offering vital resources, advocacy, and safe spaces for connection and support. These organizations are champions of change, tirelessly working to uplift and empower LGBTQ+ Atlantans. Each group brings a unique mission to the table, addressing issues from healthcare and housing to education and childhood support. Together, they form a strong foundation for Atlanta’s LGBTQ+ community, creating the resources and advocacy needed for a thriving, inclusive city.
Through vibrant fundraising events, they not only raise money for essential programs but also bring the community together in celebration and solidarity. Here’s a look at each of these community heroes, their missions, and the events that keep them going strong.
Since 1982, AID Atlanta has been one of the most trusted names in HIV/AIDS prevention, education, and support services in the Southeast. Dedicated to saving and transforming lives affected by HIV/AIDS, AID Atlanta provides a range of essential services that include testing, treatment, counseling, and community outreach programs.
Key Fundraiser: AIDS Walk Atlanta & Music Festival
One of the city’s largest annual fundraising events, the AIDS Walk Atlanta & Music Festival combines community spirit with powerful advocacy. This event draws thousands of participants who walk or run to raise awareness and funds for HIV/AIDS services. The festival also includes performances by local musicians, providing an uplifting atmosphere for attendees. Funds raised go directly toward sustaining AID Atlanta’s critical services, helping them reach thousands of Atlantans in need.
Positive Impact Health Centers
Positive Impact Health Centers (PIHC) offers comprehensive healthcare and supportive services with a strong focus on LGBTQ+ and HIV-positive communities. PIHC emphasizes inclusive healthcare and stigma-free environments, where clients can access primary care, behavioral health services, case management, and HIV prevention, including PrEP and HIV testing. Their mission revolves around health equity and reducing the impact of HIV in the community.
Key Fundraiser: Party With Impact
Each year, Positive Impact Health Centers host Party With Impact, an inclusive and high-energy gala featuring performances, auctions, and a sense of unity. Funds raised from this annual event support PIHC’s mission to provide affordable healthcare and expand HIV prevention and education efforts. Party With Impact has become one of the most anticipated gatherings in Atlanta’s LGBTQ+ social calendar, allowing guests to celebrate and support health and wellness initiatives.
Status: Home is a housing initiative that assists LGBTQ+ individuals—especially those living with HIV/AIDS—in finding safe, supportive, and stable housing. Recognizing that safe housing is critical to health and well-being, Status: Home addresses homelessness within the LGBTQ+ community, which disproportionately affects LGBTQ+ youth and those affected by HIV. Their advocacy and support services aim to empower individuals to secure long-term housing and to connect them with vital community resources.
Key Fundraiser: The Annual Halloween Bash
Status: Home brings back Atlanta’s hottest Halloween party and a night of legendary fun supporting a great cause! This iconic event features an epic costume contest with celebrity judges, fabulous dragfluencers, and glamorous attendess. Enjoy light bites, overflowing drinks, and electrifying beats in a setting brimming with Halloween spirit. Don’t miss this chance to celebrate and support housing security in Atlanta’s LGBTQ+ community in unforgettable style!
Joining Hearts is dedicated to providing housing assistance for those affected by HIV/AIDS, raising awareness and funding through unique and entertaining events. Their mission centers on providing support to LGBTQ+ Atlantans who are in need of stable housing due to health or financial challenges related to HIV/AIDS. Since its inception, Joining Hearts has donated millions of dollars toward housing and healthcare services, making it a well-loved and respected organization in the community.
Key Fundraisers: Joining Hearts Pool Party and Change of Seasons
The Joining Hearts Pool Party is an iconic event in the LGBTQ+ calendar, known for its festive atmosphere, live DJ performances, and poolside fun. The event attracts a vibrant crowd and serves as a significant fundraiser for the organization, with all proceeds going toward housing assistance programs. Additionally, Change of Seasons is another popular fundraiser, allowing attendees to celebrate the seasonal transition with dancing, socializing, and community-building while raising money for a worthy cause.
Founded to bring joy and essential resources to children in need, For The Kid In All Of Us hosts events that blend charity with fun, generating support for children in the LGBTQ+ community and beyond. This volunteer-driven organization focuses on giving back to children from underserved backgrounds, with special attention to inclusivity and LGBTQ+ youth who may lack traditional support systems. Their events collect toys, supplies, and funds for local children, helping to build a stronger, kinder community.
Key Fundraisers: The Toy Party & Backpack Party
The Toy Party is a holiday-themed celebration where attendees bring toys to donate, creating a joyous atmosphere while making a difference in children’s lives. With music, dancing, and holiday cheer, this event fills a vital need for toy donations across Atlanta. Another beloved event is the Backpack Party, a summer gathering where attendees contribute school supplies for children, supporting their education and success. Both events highlight the organization’s playful spirit and dedication to enriching the lives of children in need.
These organizations continue to play a transformative role in creating a safer, healthier, and more inclusive Atlanta for everyone. Supporting them through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word about their work makes an impactful difference. Let’s celebrate and sustain the legacy of these dedicated groups by showing up for them in every way we can—because together, we build the foundation for a more compassionate and empowered community.