Name: Andy Nelson (he/him)
Organization: Western Montana LGBTQ+ Community Center
Years Serving the Community: 8
When did you start working in nonprofit organizations and what was it that helped you
decide to make this your career?
The Western Montana LGBTQ+ Community Center is the first and only nonprofit that I’ve worked for. I originally got involved with The Center when I came out in college. A friend recommended that I check out their weekly gay men’s group as a way to meet new people and engage with folks that have similar lived experiences. I fell in love with the organization and the LGBTQ+ community as a whole and soon found myself singing in the local Missoula Gay Men’s chorus, serving on The Center’s board of directors and later working for the organization as its first employee.
What specific cause is the most important to you and why?
Oh gosh, that’s a tough one. Obviously because of the work I do, human rights is top of mind for me. I want future generations of LGBTQ+ youth here in Montana to grow up in a more inclusive and accepting world, so I will always fight for them. Also, as the cost of living continues to increase here in Western Montana along with a housing crisis, helping people get basic needs such as food and clothing is also essential to me. We began implementing our Free Food Program and Queer Clothing Closet here at The Center this year.
How has your work helped the community is real ways?
We are a hub for the LGBTQ+ community here in Western Montana. For many, we are a “first stop” for those new to town looking to meet folks in the community, or a “go-to” for folks looking for resources ranging from LGBTQ+ affirming therapists to queer owned businesses, gender affirming care providers to direct services like food, clothing, and healthcare.
What are the challenges that you are currently trying to work on and solve?
We exist in an increasingly red state, with elected officials continuing to target the LGBTQ+ community. The Montana State Legislature will begin in January, and hateful and harmful anti-LGBTQ+ legislation is already on the docket. We will continue to fight against discrimination directed by those in power. Our community is fierce, resilient as hell, and we are not going anywhere.
Is there any specific event or memory that stands out to you about the impact you have
had?
There are so many. This work is incredibly challenging, but the rewards far outweigh the challenges.
One example is a couple of parents from rural Montana who were looking for resources to support their trans child. They began attending our online Allies Group as a way to do so. Over the years, both parents have become incredible allies to their child and now come to Missoula every once in a while to attend events and celebrations like Missoula Pride. While they live in super rural Montana with little to no resources for them, they were able to connect with our community here in Missoula and find ways to better support their kiddo. I get a big smile on my face every time I see them.
How do you use collaboration to achieve goals and better outcomes?
Collaboration as key! Change happens at the local level, and working for a nonprofit organization, I believe it is critical that we form partnerships, bonds and relationships with other nonprofits and organizations. The world can be so much bigger and brighter when we work together!
What would you say to the community to get them more involved and to care about what
is going on?
First, watch a little less news and spend less time on social media. Get involved with your local LGBTQ+ community center (if you have one) and/or LGBTQ+ groups/organizations in your area. Join a social club or service organization. As I said above, change happens at the local level. Immerse yourself in community. You will be better for it!
If you weren’t working in nonprofits, what are your other passions?
I LOVE theatre. If I didn’t need to work, I would look for every opportunity I could to audition for shows and just find an excuse to sing, dance and let loose!
How do you plan on surviving and making the most out of the next 4 years with the new
administration?
Oh honey, this bear has been poked! I will be working my ass off over the next 4 years fighting and advocating for our LGBTQ+ community. It’s imperative that we speak out and stand up for what’s right. Our youth are looking to US, right NOW, to fight for the future of our LGBTQ+ communities. I have the privilege to speak out and stand up, so I will be using that privilege to fight for our community.
10. What are some of the things people can do at home or on their own to help make a
difference in the community, specifically the area that you focus on?
First, they can get involved with The Center. We have so many ways to get involved through volunteering here during the daytime, facilitating and coordinating social and support groups, helping us put on community events and so much more. When the legislature begins, folks can get involved by helping spread awareness of issues affecting our community and speaking out by testifying at the legislature, calling/writing their representatives, and of course, protesting.
