When we reflect on what makes an event truly successful, we think about the moments that linger, the ones that stay with us in the quiet hours or resurface when we least expect them. For one parent, it was a peaceful morning reflection while making coffee and catching sight of the small rainbow on the hand-painted pot from the day before. For a volunteer photographer, it was the spontaneous joy of teaching a teen how to use a camera. For our team at MARE, it was the quiet satisfaction of watching this once fledgling event grow into something bigger, with genuine connections formed, and new inquiries and potential matches emerging from the day.
Held on June 14 in Worcester, in partnership with Safe Homes, this year’s LGBTQ+ Pride Celebration and Matching Event welcomed seven youth and eight families, in its largest turnout yet. This is a remarkable step forward from MARE's very first Pride celebration four years ago, which included just two youth and a handful of families.
The community space blossomed into a vibrant hub of creativity and comfort, thanks to the many decorations, fun activities, and a colorful cake generously donated by Cakes for Kids. The participants painted tote bags, sculpted clay, crocheted, potted plants, painted pots, and enjoyed casual games of pool and shuffleboard. But beyond the crafts and color, it was the atmosphere of openness that made the biggest impression.
“It’s never an awkward event. Over the years we just chat, introduce the event, and it seems like the families filter around and engage with every single kid. It feels more like a fun celebration rather than a meet and greet,” one organizer, Chelsea, noted.
Our volunteer photographer and Neighborhood member, shooting their second event for us and on their birthday, no less, shared what it felt like to be welcomed into this special space.
“Initially, people were shy, so I stayed back with a long-range lens. But as the room filled with laughter, youth and adults mingled more, and soon everyone embraced the camera. I asked for silly pictures and the kids lit up. One youth, Sky, really stood out. She made faces, photobombed others, and then started asking questions about the camera. So I handed it to her. She picked it up right away and walked around taking pictures like it was second nature. People opened up to her instantly, and when I reviewed the photos later, I realized she’d done a beautiful job.”
The MARE team was inspired by Sky’s openness that day. In the past, she had been very shy, but at this year’s event, she was fully engaged, inviting others to play pool, and connecting with both youth and families. “Seeing her blossom into such a confident individual is beautiful to see,” one of the co-creators, Janet, shared.
Sky’s story is a snapshot of what these events are meant to do, which is to empower self-expression and reveal new possibilities. After talking with Sky’s Weekend Family Resource connection, our photographer shared that they’d like to donate an older professional camera to her, an offer that’s now moving through the appropriate channels.
From a family’s perspective, the impact of the event was equally profound.
“It was such a thoughtful and well-executed event where it really felt like there was time and space to interact and make connections. As I was making my coffee this morning, I saw my little plant in its decorated pot and was touched by the work you (MARE) put into making this event a success and a celebration of Pride for both the kids and the families.”
Photos courtesy of Donna Joseph
Thanks to Safe Homes, the youth also had access to gender affirming resources such as binders, clothing, and makeup tutorials, all presented in a way that honored each young person’s autonomy and identity.
By the end of the day, we received four inquiries and identified two potential matches, but numbers alone can’t capture the essence of what took place.
“I commend the organizers who I could see put a lot of time and energy into setting this up," our photographer said. "MARE is a great community of beautiful caring people. I look forward to photographing my next event."
What started out as a small, celebratory gathering has grown into one of our most joyful and affirming events of the year. As we look ahead, we’re deeply grateful to our staff, volunteers, partners, and supporters.
Together, we are building a future rooted in connection, celebration, and pride. If you’re moved to get involved, there are many ways to take that first step. Whether you open your heart and home as an adoptive parent, join The Neighborhood to support youth through community engagement, or become a Visiting Connection to build meaningful one-on-one relationships, your involvement makes a difference.