MUNCIE, Ind. – In a small classroom located inside Community of Hope, Lavender Closet has reopened its doors. While the nonprofit was previously located on campus, Lavender Closet had to relocate. Since opening in February, the mission has been hoping to offer its services to a larger community.
Lavender Closet aims to provide a safe space for the queer community, but the resources they provide are open to everyone. They help aid those in need by providing clothes and other necessities. They offer soap, shampoo, and self-hygiene products. In the future, they hope to expand their operations and offer bigger things, like furniture. But those who volunteer their time to help keep the doors open say it’s about more than just the resources.
“I love the space. I love being in here. It feels cozy. Also, when we had our grand opening, it just truly felt like community. There was so many people hanging out, having fun,” Izzy Thompson said.
Thompson is the director/founder of Lavender Closet and a graduate student at Ball State. They’re proud of the progress the group has made so far. All of Lavender Closet’s resources are given by donation, and it’s the members of the community that help keep the mission alive.
Community is important to Lavender Closet, and they hope to build a strong connection with other queer organizations nearby. A few weeks ago, to help decorate their space, they hosted an event. Those who showed up could help paint Lavender Closet’s mural.
While the mural is still in progress, it’s easy to notice the support Lavender Closet has received so far. The nonprofit hopes to host more events like that one, drawing in more members of the queer community and creating a space of inclusion for all.
Contact Addison Hampshire with comments at addison.hampshire@bsu.edu
