Out On The Lakeshore

Out On The Lakeshore is a comprehensive community center serving West Michigan's LGBTQ+ population and their allies in Holland, MI. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, OOTL provides expansive education, programming, partnerships, safe spaces, and advocacy designed to create a more inclusive and welcoming community. The organization offers a diverse range of services tailored to meet the needs of LGBTQ+ individuals at every stage of their journey. Through relationship-focused programming, Out On The Lakeshore hosts support groups including Gender SAFE and Aged with Pride, alongside social gatherings such as Reading the Rainbow book club, Community Game Night, and Show Your Work. The organization's educational initiatives provide resources that build self-understanding and acceptance for LGBTQ+ individuals, while also offering educational materials and speaker programs for allies, families, colleagues, and organizations seeking greater understanding. Out On The Lakeshore maintains an extensive library of educational literature and curates links to helpful resources on their website. The organization is deeply committed to advocacy, having earned the City of Holland's Social Justice Award in 2020 for leading efforts to pass the city's Non-Discrimination Ordinance. Additionally, OOTL hosts the annual Holland PRIDE Festival, a major community celebration that brings together thousands of supporters, local businesses, and organizations while serving as the organization's largest fundraiser. Since its establishment in 2015, Out On The Lakeshore has grown to serve more than 6,000 individuals and continues to build collaborative relationships with area businesses, churches, schools, law enforcement, and community organizations throughout the Holland region.