As we continue to witness the challenges facing the LGBTQ+ community, particularly in underserved areas, it has become increasingly clear that collaboration is not just beneficial—it is essential. This is why I am proud to announce the partnership between Pridelines and Foo Society, Inc., two organizations deeply committed to supporting, empowering, and uplifting LGBTQ+ individuals in South Dade. Together, we are creating “Pridelines powered by Foo Society, Inc.,” a space where care, creativity, and community meet.
For over four decades, Pridelines has been a vital part of Miami’s LGBTQ+ community, offering crucial services ranging from HIV/STI testing to mental health counseling and housing support. Our mission has always been to provide safe spaces where people can thrive. Now, by partnering with Foo Society, an innovative LGBTQ+ advocacy and youth empowerment organization, we are expanding that mission and deepening our impact.
The new community space at 20464 S Dixie Highway in Cutler Bay will be more than just a physical location. It will be a beacon of hope for LGBTQ+ youth and individuals who often face barriers to accessing the resources they need. By merging Foo Society’s groundbreaking arts, media, and youth programming with Pridelines' robust health and wellness services, we are building a comprehensive hub for support, creativity, and empowerment. This partnership is a reflection of what can happen when organizations come together with a shared vision of making a tangible difference in people’s lives.
For me, this partnership represents a significant step forward in our efforts to reach more people in South Dade. We are not only increasing our capacity to provide essential services such as HIV/STI testing and PrEP linkage, but we are also creating a safe, inclusive space where LGBTQ+ individuals can express themselves freely and without judgment. Foo Society’s unique approach to youth advocacy and creative expression will complement the health and wellness services that Pridelines is known for, allowing us to serve our community in a more holistic and impactful way.
When we talk about the power of collaboration, it is more than just a buzzword—it is a strategy for survival, growth, and sustainability. I have always believed that our strength lies in our ability to work together, and this partnership with Foo Society demonstrates that. By combining our resources, expertise, and passion, we are setting a new standard for what LGBTQ+ organizations can achieve when they join forces. Together, we are creating an environment that fosters resilience, empowers youth, and uplifts those who need it most.
What excites me most about this partnership is the potential to make a lasting, transformative impact. The space will feature a David Bohnett Cyber Center, private offices for counseling sessions, a lounge area for socializing, and even a boutique clothing area to ensure that individuals can feel comfortable and confident in their own skin. It will be a place where members of our community can come not only for support but also to express their creativity, explore new opportunities, and build meaningful connections.
This partnership also speaks to our long-term vision for Pridelines. We are not simply reacting to the needs of today; we are preparing for the challenges of tomorrow. By co-locating with Foo Society, we are ensuring that our services remain accessible, relevant, and impactful for years to come. We are also developing a joint fundraising strategy to support the continued growth of our programs, which will be critical to sustaining this new center and ensuring that it thrives as a resource for the LGBTQ+ community in South Dade.
Kyya Love, the CEO of Foo Society, and I share a common belief: when organizations unite, they can achieve more than they ever could on their own. Our partnership is a testament to that belief, and I have no doubt that it will serve as a model for other nonprofits looking to expand their reach and better serve their communities.
As we prepare to open our doors on October 15th, I invite everyone to join us in this new chapter. Pridelines powered by Foo Society, Inc. is not just a space—it is a movement. It is a commitment to creating a safer, healthier, and more supportive world for LGBTQ+ individuals. And it is a reminder that, together, we can make a lasting difference.
Dr. Edward Summers
Executive Director, Pridelines
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