May 2024 Programs

At Prism, we recognize that mental well-being is crucial for everyone, but it holds a special significance for those of us navigating the complexities of identity and acceptance.

This month, we’re dedicated to spreading awareness, reducing stigma, and providing the supportive resources our community needs to thrive mentally and emotionally. From teen workshops held in partnership with Lifelines Counseling Services to support groups and art therapy inspired by Bob Ross, we’ve curated a variety of programs designed to empower and nurture everyone’s mental health journey.

For more information on Mental Health Awareness Month or to learn more about our ongoing support services, please contact us at [email protected].

Since its debut in 2018, Bent Broadway has assembled some of Mobile’s greatest singers and dancers in a Broadway concert with a twist—performers singing songs written for the opposite gender. This gender-bending musical showcase pushes the boundaries of theater and song and is sure to be a night you’ll never forget!

This year, we invite you to experience the magic on two unforgettable evenings, Friday, May 24, and Saturday, May 25, at Laidlaw Performing Arts Center on the campus of the University of South Alabama. Tickets are available for $30. The show starts at 7:00PM.

All proceeds of the show benefit Prism United.

Bent Broadway was the fundraiser that launched Prism United in 2018, and it continues to lift us up today. By attending the show, you’re not only guaranteed to be spectacularly entertained—you’re also showing your support for local LGBTQ+ young people. And you can push your impact even further by sponsoring the event. Sponsorship levels range from Applause ($50-$99) with name recognition in the event program, up to Spotlight ($1,000+) which includes a half-page ad, prominent logo placement, special event recognition, and four tickets. Learn more by clicking the button below:

Prism Teens offers regular gatherings, a confidential space for friendship and connection, access to LGBTQ+ literature, and essential health resources for LGBTQ+ youth and allies ages 14-18. This month, we’ll meet on Saturdays, May 4 & 11, with a special late-night art session on Saturday, May 18. Lifelines Counseling Services will join us on May 11 for a healthy relationships workshop.

Our third annual Prism Prom was an incredible success, drawing nearly 100 youth for a night of dancing, gaming, and celebration. In this newsletter, we’re excited to share just a few of our favorite moments from the evening. For even more highlights from our spectacular Sunken Utopia, be sure to follow us on social media!

We are delighted to announce that we have joined forces with the United Way of Southwest Alabama to become partners for the 2024-2026 cycle! 

We are immensely grateful to the United Way for believing in our mission and embracing our efforts to foster positive change. This collaboration is not just a milestone for us—it’s a pivotal moment that promises to amplify our ability to address and support the crucial needs of our community. Thank you, UWSWA!

We’re honored to be a finalist in four categories for this year’s Nappie Awards, spanning both the “City Life” and “Arts” categories. Here’s where you can support us:

City Life
Best Mobilian Right Now – Corey Harvard, Prism United Executive Director
Best Local Nonprofit – Prism United
Best Annual Fundraising Event – Wig Walk, Prism United

Arts
Best Arts Event – Bent Broadway

Voting opens on Wednesday, May 1, at noon and runs through Sunday, May 26, at midnight. You can cast your vote once per day during that period.

We’ve completely refreshed our website! Beyond a number of design updates, we’ve added a lot of new content to better represent the full scope of Prism’s work. Some of that content includes:

• An “Our Story” page, where we offer a brief summary of Prism’s journey as a nonprofit, spotlighting some of our favorite memories.
• Program & event overview pages, linking to pages that more thoroughly describe our programs, services, and major events.
• A “Prism Awards” page, commemorating the recipients of our Prism Changemaker & Prism Guardian awards.

Give it up for Margaret Eckles Jordan with Bold Layout, LLC who donates her time and experience to give us such a beautiful, compelling website. Along with being our webmaster, Margaret sits on the Prism board and serves as a Prism Families facilitator.

Check out all of the other exciting updates here: www.prismunited.org