At Prism, August marks more than just the end of summer: it’s the beginning of something new. Our 2025–26 Core Programs are back, and with them comes a renewed commitment to creating safe, affirming spaces for LGBTQ+ youth in Southwest Alabama.
Before weekly gatherings begin, we’re opening our doors for a special Open House on August 9th, a chance to reconnect, explore what’s ahead, and celebrate the start of a new year together.
And the energy doesn’t stop there. Fall at Prism is packed with opportunities to show up, speak out, and celebrate: Come Out Mobile and the ever-iconic Wig Walk are just around the corner.
Whether you’re new to the Prism community or a familiar face, this season is about fresh starts and bold futures. And we’re so glad you’re here for it!
There’s a lot to be excited about this season! Read on for the full lineup, and don’t hesitate to reach out at info@prismunited.org if you need anything.
Prism Teens (Ages 14-18) ✨ Saturdays, August 16, 23 & 30
We’re kicking off the year with Pathways on August 16, a chance to co-create group expectations and set personal intentions that will guide our time together. On August 23, things get interactive with This or That, a fun, on-your-feet activity that gets us thinking (and talking) about identity, values, and how we see the world.
We’ll wrap up the month on August 30 with Overlap, a powerful conversation about intersectionality and how the different parts of who we are shape our stories and our place in community.
Prism Families (Parents & Family Members) ✨ Thursday, August 21
Join us for a relaxed Coffee & Community Social Hour, a space for caregivers to connect, share stories, and build relationships in a warm, welcoming environment. We’d love to see you there!
Prism Preteens (Ages 10-13) ✨ Thursday, August 21
We’re relaunching Prism Preteens with a fresh look, an enhanced curriculum, and exciting new activities designed just for LGBTQ+ youth ages 10–13. This gathering marks the beginning of a bold new chapter, one that centers creativity, connection, and confidence.
Come see what’s new and help shape what’s next!
Start the new program year with connection, celebration, and community at our Prism Open House. This fun and welcoming event is open to all Teens, Preteens, and Families!
Come meet the Prism Team, reconnect with friends, and get a preview of what’s ahead. You’ll also have the chance to:
✨ Meet your program facilitators
✨ Explore the Youth Room
✨ Pick up a free backpack filled with school supplies
✨ Build your own custom care kit
✨ Browse the Prism Wardrobe for gender-affirming clothing and accessories
✨ Walk through inspiring Leadership Initiative posters created by this year’s youth leaders
Pizza, drinks, and good company provided. RSVP at info@prismunited.org. We can’t wait to see you there!
We’ve announced all of this year’s Trailblazer Honorees, and we can’t wait to honor them at the Come Out Mobile Gala on Saturday, September 13. These four changemakers have shaped our community through courage, care, and lifelong commitment to justice:
✨ Dr. Shey Thorn ✨
A Grand Bay native and visionary public health leader, Dr. Thorn has expanded access to HIV care, helped launched the region’s first free sexual health clinic, and secured millions in grant funding for underserved communities across the Deep South.
✨ Rev. Marge Ragona ✨
A pioneering activist and faith leader, Rev. Marge founded Mobile’s first affirming church, led the city’s AIDS Buddy System during the crisis, and continues—at age 96—to be a voice for inclusion and LGBTQ+ rights.
✨ Kelmyah Turner ✨
As Executive Director of The Black Butterfly Collective, Kelmyah is leading a new era of Black trans liberation in Alabama through mutual aid, grassroots organizing, and political education. Her work continues a family legacy of resistance and justice.
✨ In Memoriam: Danni Bond ✨
A cornerstone of Mobile’s LGBTQ+ history, Danni helped launch the Order of Osiris, co-founded the Bay Area Inclusion Community Center, and created the Mobile AIDS Fund, transforming care and visibility during a time of crisis.
In case you missed it: we’re extending Early Bird ticketing through August 8! That means one more week to grab your tickets at a discounted rate and secure your spot at one of the most inspiring nights of the year.
Get ready to strut your stuff for a cause that matters: Wig Walk 2025 is back Saturday, October 11, and bigger than ever! This one-of-a-kind pub crawl and community celebration raises critical funds for Prism United’s programs serving LGBTQ+ youth across Southwest Alabama.
Ready to rally your people for a good cause? Now’s the time to:
✨ Join or start a fundraising team
✨ Earn free tickets by reaching team fundraising milestones
✨ Compete for one-of-a-kind Wig Walk Awards
✨ Help raise critical funds for Prism’s LGBTQ+ youth programs
Whether you’re forming a team with friends, coworkers, or chosen family—every dollar raised helps create safe, affirming spaces for youth who need it most.
🎟️ Tickets are on sale now! There are two ways to join the fun:
✨ Pub Crawl + After Party Ticket ✨
Includes 6 drink tickets, access to all participating venues, and entry to the After Party at Braided River Brewing Co.
✨ After Party Only Ticket ✨
Just here for the celebration? Join us at Braided River for music, drinks, and good vibes. All ages welcome to the After Party!
Grab your tickets early and get ready for a day of bubbles, brews, bites, and bold community love!
This year’s Prism Retreat brought together our staff and board for a weekend of reflection, collaboration, and big-picture thinking. We reviewed key activities from our 2024–25 fiscal year, offering critical feedback and updates to guide our growth.
We also officially launched our next strategic planning cycle, which will be led by Dr. Shey Thorn. His leadership will help us set bold, community-centered priorities for the years ahead.
A special thank you to our friends at the New Orleans Pride Center, who generously hosted us for our visioning sessions. As we work to build a regional coalition of LGBTQ+ organizations, we’re proud to stand alongside them in solidarity and shared purpose.
Together, we’re shaping a stronger, more connected future for LGBTQ+ youth across the Gulf South.