a chapter of the LGBT Community Network
Our Story
LGBTQ Merced was established in 2023 in order to create a central place for queer folks in Merced County and the surrounding areas to find community and resources.
Queer politics in Merced have been contentious and disconnected for too long. We believe that by creating and promoting ethical and transparent systems of democratic, queer leadership, our community can come together to create incredible events, initiatives, and a sense of belonging for all queer residents of the Central Valley, from Los Banos to Mariposa, and from Turlock to Madera.
Our Values
- Elevating and empowering LGBTQ+ leaders
- Radical transparency, inclusion and diversity
- Democratic processes and values
- Collaboration, and partnership
- Community development through the ethical, equitable and sustainable use of natural, economic, social, and human resources
- Valuing the expertise and experience of the local community through promoting civic involvement and participation
- Scientific data and evidence-based practices
Our Vision
LGBTQ Merced strives to be a leader in LGBTQ+ community development, and active partner in the implementation of strategies to achieve community goals. As such, we will use community meetings, surveys, and scientific research to create and guide local policy initiatives and activities.
LGBTQ Merced’s long-term goals include the creation of a sustainable and inclusive LGBTQ+ center, expanding over a decade into services for youth experiencing homelessness in Merced County. This is because homelessness disproportionately affects LGBTQ+ transitional-aged youth, and no services currently exist in Merced County that serve this population. We envision strong
partnerships with local agencies in order to realize this goal. We are committed to democratic processes and values, including dialogue. We encourage members to have difficult conversations by putting aside judgment and replacing it with compassionate discourse to cultivate a connected queer community. This means, ultimately, be empathetic, listen, and try to understand
one another.
Those who listen, change the world
– Nobel Peace Center
Meet our team!
Josie Ascencio is a cisgender pansexual and a Merced native. She is married to her wife of 5 years and enjoys traveling around the world. She is very passionate about animals and volunteers her time fostering cats/kittens with a nonprofit since 2018. She wants to be more involved with the LGBTQ+ Community in Merced County.
Eli Sachse, BSN, RN, a transgender man, settled in Merced in 2009. He created the first transgender and non-binary support group in Merced, Genderpeers, and ran it on a volunteer basis for three years (2019-2021), connecting trans people to resources that did not previously exist in the Central Valley. He is the founder of LGBTQ Merced, GLSEN Merced, and the Merced Pride Center in the MAC. He curated the first two large LGBTQ+ art exhibitions at the MAC. He sewed the 24-foot long rainbow pride flag that was carried down main street during Merced’s first downtown pride celebration in 2019. He is a traveling registered nurse who also deploys to disasters with the American Red Cross.
Alexander Thorsman is a nonbinary individual and a Merced County native. Their goals include being more actively involved in mental health and LGBTQ+ advocacy. Their interests include reading, writing, swimming, and nature, with a deep love and affection for animals.
Gakmun Dante Cho Jones is a local artist and activist.
The Mission
The mission of the LGBT Community Network is to enhance the well-being of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender communities by providing activities, programs and services that create and support community; empower community members; provide essential resources; and embrace, promote and support our cultural diversity.
LGBT Community Network is a 501(c)3 organization, based in Fresno, CA.
Tax ID 81-3066621
