Partner Spotlight: Queerly ME
MCHT and QME have worked in partnership consistently since the summer of 2023, hosting and creating LGBTQIA+ programming on some MCHT preserves as well as sharing resources with each other and co-applying for grant funding. While each organization has a distinct mission, we share a goal of increasing access and connection to Maine’s lands and waters.
Finding connection to community and finding connection to the natural world are integral to our growth and wellbeing.”
— Kyle Warnock, founder of Queerly ME
In 2020, in the midst of the pandemic, Queerly ME’s founder Kyle Warnock dusted off a camera tucked away in a closet and found connection through photographing members of Maine’s queer community. These interactions spurred other ideas to grow community and increase LGBTQIA+ visibility and access to resources across the state— three tenets of Queerly ME’s mission today. Initiatives like the ongoing documentary project, a directory of LGBTQIA+ resources, and diverse outdoor programming advance their mission in powerful ways.
Queerly ME now hosts approximately three outdoor events every month and has reached 11 of 16 counties in Maine and hundreds of people. “In these ways we’re helping LGBTQIA+ adults establish strong support systems and community connections while feeling empowered to engage in nature as their authentic selves,” says Kyle.“I was seeking to deepen my connection to my queer identity and find my place in the community. Over the past three years, Queerly ME has exceeded my expectations, helping me achieve these goals and much more… They (Queerly ME) have undeniably been a catalyst for positive change in the Maine LGBTQIA+ community.”
I was seeking to deepen my connection to my queer identity and find my place in the community. Over the past three years, Queerly ME has exceeded my expectations, helping me achieve these goals and much more… They (Queerly ME) have undeniably been a catalyst for positive change in the Maine LGBTQIA+ community.”
— Lydia Coburn
SUPPORT QUEERLY ME! BECOME A DONOR TODAY.
Queerly ME is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to creating and increasing LGBTQIA+ visibility, resource accessibility, and Queer-centered outdoor programming in Maine. Your donation today will make it possible for Queerly ME to commit to full-time employees, which will be transformative for this organization already making a tremendous impact.
VISIT QUEERLYME.ORG TO LEARN MORE AND MAKE A DIFFERENCE