OUR MISSION
Pride in the Valley was established to celebrate the hope of the future while honoring the lessons and legacy of the past. The festival aims not only to bring together diverse members of the community but also to pay tribute to those who have fought for the right to celebrate openly. It creates a fun and welcoming environment where everyone can feel comfortable, sharing the message that all people—regardless of sexuality, gender identity, gender expression, HIV status, age, race, ethnicity, religion, or any other factor—deserve to live life to the fullest. More than just a day of celebration, the event also helps Full Spectrum Community Outreach raise funds to support the Center’s year-round programs and services, which are open to everyone in the community.
NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY
Pride in the Valley and Full Spectrum Community Outreach do not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, HIV status, sexual orientation, or military status, in any of its activities or operations. These activities include, but are not limited to, hiring and firing of staff, selection of volunteers and vendors, and provision of services. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of our staff, clients, volunteers, subcontractors, vendors, and clients.​
ABOUT PRIDE IN THE VALLEY
Pride in the Valley is an annual festival that launched in 2019, offering a vibrant lineup of vendors, speakers, entertainment, networking, and social opportunities. It welcomes not only those who identify as LGBTQIA+ but also their friends, allies, and community supporters. Best of all, the festival is completely FREE to attend.
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Pride in the Valley is presented by BCC Full Spectrum Community Outreach, a 501(c)(3) organization serving the LGBTQIA+ community in Youngstown, Ohio. Their mission is to create a Mahoning Valley where LGBTQIA+ individuals can thrive as healthy, equal, and fully included members of society.
ABOUT FULL SPECTRUM
Full Spectrum Community Outreach is an LGBTQIA+ Community Resource Center and a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in the Subway Plaza in Struthers, OH. We serve the Mahoning, Columbiana, and Trumbull counties, offering free monthly support groups for LGBTQIA+ teens, adults, and their families and partners. Our programs also include free community events, social gatherings at local venues, and educational workshops and awareness forums. Additionally, we provide training to local organizations and businesses to foster LGBTQIA+ affirming environments.
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We operate a drop-in center dedicated to supporting homeless and underprivileged LGBTQIA+ individuals by providing essentials such as toiletries, snacks, clothing, and case management resources. Our Closet of Change program offers free clothing, makeup, binders, wigs, and other items to help clients explore and express their gender identity.
Since opening in 2016, we have received numerous requests from LGBTQIA+ individuals seeking safe housing options. In response, Full Spectrum has been actively fundraising and applying for grants to establish an adult and family LGBTQIA+ transitional homeless shelter in the Valley. Once opened, this shelter will be the first of its kind within over 300 miles and among only a few nationwide.
|PHOTO FROM THE 2025 PRIDE IN THE VALLEY FESTIVAL
2026 PRIDE IN THE VALLEY
PLANNING TEAM
Dedication. Expertise. Passion.
Join our PRIDE TEAM, who are comprised solely of unpaid volunteers, donating their time, energy, and
expertise to the LGBTQIA+ community of the Mahoning Valley.
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We are also always in need of a helping hand at PRIDE!
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Click HERE if you are interested in joining our team!