Queer Connect, Inc.

Queer Connect, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing comprehensive visibility and resources for LGBTQIA+ individuals and families throughout Bennington, Vermont and the surrounding region. Founded in April 2019 by Lisa Carton, the organization recognized an urgent community need for safe, inclusive spaces and has since become a vital resource hub for LGBTQ+ support and advocacy.

Queer Connect specializes in community engagement, particularly with LGBTQ+ youth who inspired the organization's founding mission. The organization successfully launched Bennington's first-ever Pride Weekend in June 2019 and continues to develop programs and services that address the unique needs of queer community members. Their service approach is rooted in an intersectional framework that acknowledges multiple forms of marginalization and discrimination, ensuring culturally competent support for all community members.

The organization is committed to increasing LGBTQ+ visibility in Bennington through community programming, resource development, and advocacy work. Queer Connect operates on a volunteer-based model and actively welcomes community members interested in supporting their growth and mission. Their work encompasses human rights advocacy, community building, and the creation of affirming spaces that foster collective liberation. Whether you're seeking resources, community connection, or ways to support LGBTQ+ rights in Vermont, Queer Connect serves as a dedicated partner in building a more inclusive Bennington community.