PfCA: Rural 2SLGBTQIA+ Community Support & Organizing
Who We Are
PfCA is a community-centered organizing hub dedicated to building a vibrant, safe, and inclusive ecosystem for Queer and gender-diverse individuals across Chaffee County and the Arkansas River Valley. Our model is grounded in "Pillars of Care," bridging the gap between immediate direct services and long-term systemic change. Through local leadership and a deep understanding of rural contexts, we provide the essential infrastructure for youth support, advocacy, and community connection.
Our Primary Hub: The OUTPost
Located in Salida, CO, The OUTPost serves as our physical Community Care Hub. This expanded facility offers a mix of drop-in resources and structured programming, providing a safe harbor for those seeking connection or essential supplies in a privacy-forward environment.
What We Offer
- Community Care & Basic Needs (The OUTPost)
- Safe Space: A welcoming drop-in area for connection, plus private rooms for 1:1 resource navigation and care coordination.
- Rainbow Closet: Trust-based access to gender-affirming clothing, specialty items (binders, gaffs, prosthetics), and professional or seasonal attire.
- Binder Library: A safe pathway to obtain new binders, including try-on options, fit support, and safety education.
- Pantry & Wellness: Access to nutritious food, hygiene/personal care supplies, and multilingual support.
- Lending & Gear Library: Shared community tools, including recreation gear, event supplies, and creative media tools.
- Respite Services: Access to onsite shower, laundry, and kitchen facilities (available based on staffing).
- Youth Programs: YAS! (Your Authentic Self) Club
- Affirming, school-based, and community-based clubs for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth.
- Focus on peer connection, mental health, leadership development, and civic engagement.
- Strict confidentiality protocols designed specifically for the unique needs of rural youth.
- Events & Social Connection
- Ark Valley Pride: An annual celebration featuring a parade, festival, and family-friendly programming.
- Community Gatherings: Seasonal potlucks, adult social connections, game nights, craft nights, and educational events designed to reduce rural isolation.
- Education, Advocacy & Systems Change
- Professional Training: LGBTQ+ cultural fluency and "Safe Zone" education for healthcare providers, schools, and local businesses.
- Policy Advocacy: Local and state-level work focused on inclusive schools, medically accurate sex education, and strengthening rural healthcare referral networks.
- Civic Engagement: Building active relationships with local decision-makers to improve safety and wellbeing for the rural 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
Service Area: Primarily serving Chaffee County and the Arkansas River Valley, with extended reach into surrounding rural counties. We prioritize 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, with a specialized focus on those experiencing housing instability, disability, or isolation.
