Polestar LGBT+ Community Center

WHY IS IT NAMED POLESTAR?

It turns out, deciding what to name the center was one of the hardest tasks we've faced so far.  We didn't want to duplicate a name that others are using and we didn't want anything too predictable.  We also wanted the name to reflect what we envision the center to be; a sort of central location to bring in those around us.  We tossed around words like light house and beacon.  These names are often associated with religious organizations, though, and that's not what we are.  So we turned to a thesaurus and looked for synonymous words.  That's how we landed on polestar.  Polestar's definition is a center of attraction or something to act as a guide, which is exactly what we want to be.  We want to be a center where you can all come to feel safe, and we want to guide you to information about LGBT friendly health care providers, businesses, and services. 

 

​WHERE IS THE CENTER LOCATED, CAN I VISIT IT?

Currently Polestar is a virtual center, with an actively updated website and social media pages (Facebook and Twitter).  We are actively seeking donations and have resolved to open a center by the start of Q3 of 2018.  If you would like to help us with this goal, please consider donating!

 

​I WANT TO BE INVOLVED, HOW CAN I HELP?

We're currently working with volunteers on 3 committees that report to the Board of Directors.  These committees are laying the foundation for programming, fundraising, and grant writing.  They're help right now is crucial to getting us off the ground, but in the future we'll also need help carrying out events and programs.  If you are interested in helping, fill out a Volunteer Application, and we'll reach out to you.

 

IS POLESTAR A NON-PROFIT?

Yes!  Polestar is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt non-profit as approved by the United States IRS in December, 2016.  The non-profit status means donations given to the center are tax deductible.  Did you give in November?  Our tax-exempt status was back dated by the IRS with a start date of October 20, 2016, the day we incorporated with the State of Michigan, meaning all donations given after October 20, 2016 are tax deductible. 

 

WHERE IS THE "DONATE NOW" BUTTON, HOW CAN I DONATE?

Polestar is actively seeking donations to help us move into a physical center and provide a number of amazing services and programs! Donations can be made by clicking the "donate now" button on our home page, or by sending a check in the mail to P.O. Box 7317, Traverse City, MI 49696. Checks may be made out to Polestar LGBT+ Community Center.