'Decades of work, commitment, and hope': Key turned on new LGBTI+ community centre in Cork

Gay Project has announced that it has purchased a new community centre in Cork, marking a significant milestone for the local LGBTI+ community.

The new centre will serve as a dedicated, safe, and inclusive space for LGBTI+ individuals and allies and reflects decades of dedication and vision from numerous stakeholders, including Arthur Leahy, a long-time advocate for an LGBTI+ community space.

Mr Leahy’s early advocacy, which began over 40 years ago in meetings with the founders of the Cork Gay and Lesbian Community Development Project, was pivotal in highlighting the importance of a space where LGBTI+ people could come together for connection, support, and empowerment.

In a symbolic moment, Mr Leahy, who had envisioned this space, was honoured to turn the key to the new building, 40 years after his initial efforts.

Gay Project extended a heartfelt thank you to its staff, volunteers and the dedicated members of the Gay Project Board, as well as the HSE Cork South Community Work Department for their support throughout the process.

Chairperson of the Gay Project Board, Stephen Spillane, said: 

“This centre represents decades of work, commitment, and hope.

“We are incredibly excited to take this step forward and we invite everyone in the community to help us create something extraordinary for generations to come.” 

The new community centre will enhance Gay Project’s ability to provide a long-lasting, vibrant hub for social events, support services, workshops, and more.

Several essential building works are required at the centre, including the installation of an accessible toilet and other renovations, to ensure the centre is fully accessible to all community members and, in the coming weeks, Gay Project will launch a fundraising campaign to cover the costs of these upgrades and help support a portion of the mortgage, ensuring the long-term financial sustainability of the centre.

The organisation welcomes personal donations via its website donorbox.org/gay-project and will also be reaching out to local businesses and community allies to seek their support.

Further details about the building project and upcoming fundraising initiatives will be available soon on Gay Project’s official website www.gayproject.ie.