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Center on Halsted's Community and Cultural team creates and hosts a wide array of fun, interactive and engaging programs enjoyed by members of the entire community. Events range from volleyball games in our gymnasium to dance recitals in our theatre. We host regular receptions showcasing local LGBTQ artists and special events for LGBTQ families and friends.
Keep reading to find out about the different events and programs offered at Center on Halsted. And be sure to check out our calendar to find an upcoming event that's right for you.
We're always looking for more ideas too. If you would like to partner with us on a special or recurring event, please contact the Director of Community and Cultural Progams, Lynnea Karlic by calling 773.661.0954 or emailing lkarlic@centeronhalsted.org.
We offer regular events and programs designed for specific communities within the LGBTQ family to help foster identity and fellowship.
- Bisexual Programs
Center on Halsted provides event space and offers specific workshops, discussions, networking opportunities and cultural events tailored specifically for the bisexual community and allies. Check the calendar for upcoming events related to the bisexual community.
- Children's Space & Family Programs
Center on Halsted provides a safe and inviting place for all families to play and celebrate with one another. The Butler-Vanderlinden Child Center on the second floor is a space completely devoted to children's activities. You're invited to bring your little ones here anytime. Toys, books and games are all available—just bring the fun!
Additionally, we host regular events and programs for LGBTQ families and we also partner with area organizations including the Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois, as well as children's festivals and theaters to host local family events. Check out the calendar for upcoming events for your family.
- Transgender Programs
A team of volunteers, staff and community members work together to host events by and for the Transgender community. From screenings of trans-related films and social outings to peer-led discussion groups, an open mike night, and monthly family spaghetti dinners for trans* identified and questioning individuals. Check the calendar for upcoming transgender related events.
- Women's Programs
The Women's Action Committee is a group of dedicated Center volunteers who plan and host regular fundraising and social events “By Women, For Women” throughout the year to benefit local women’s organizations. We also have a Women’s Art program that brings women together to socialize and learn to paint. Check the calendar for upcoming women's events.
Center on Halsted has a full size gymnasium on the third floor which hosts a number of athletic events and programs like open gym volleyball, floor hockey and basketball. More than 500 people come to Center on Halsted every week to enjoy the athletic facilities and team sports. Additionally, we regularly host yoga, ballroom dancing, and fitness classes. Check out our calendar of events for more information.
- Open Gym Co-Ed Volleyball
Center on Halsted hosts Open Gym Co-Ed Volleyball every Monday and Thursday night at 6pm. There is a $7 fee per night or pay only $30 for a monthly pass. Click here to purchase your pass for the upcoming open gym volleyball now! For more information, please email culture@centeronhalsted.org or call 773.472.6469.
- Sponsored Sports Teams
We are home to five recreational leagues that play regularly at the Center throughout the year.
2013 Crush Softball Team
Back row: Ken Hawrysko, Jeff Xenakis, Matt McGary, Mike Gentile, Andrew Ladochi, Scott Biederwolf, Rob Paradise
Middle row: Tyler Foerster, Olin Eargle, Anthony Miceli, Angie Smith, Jason Thompson
Front row: Mike Ortiz
Not pictured: Mark Vild
Win-Loss Record
| Game |
Team |
Score |
| 1 |
Chicago Express |
10-3 |
| 2 |
Angel's Envy |
7-10 |
| 3 |
Halsted's Chargers |
15-10 |
| 4 |
Sidetrack's Blues |
20-5 |
Center on Halsted is proud to announce on-site GED programming to help LGBTQ individuals and allies to continue their education and to seek better job placement opportunities. The GED program is a comprehensive community learning course in collaboration between Center on Halsted and Truman Community College. Students and teachers meet 2 times a week to prepare for the GED test. GED program participants have the advantages and ease of continuing as a Truman College student upon passing the GED test. Enrollment and assessment is necessary for the GED program. Tutoring is available.
Interested? Contact Lynnea Karlic, Director of Community and Cultural Programs, to learn more by emailing lkarlic@centeronhalsted.org or calling 773.661.0954.
Center on Halsted is home to two art galleries which showcase different LGBTQ artists from the community. You can view the galleries on the second and third floors during normal business hours or join us for our opening night reception where you can mix and mingle with other community members and meet the featured artists. A schedule follows for artists currently scheduled for 2013:
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May 17–July 3 |
Chris Kemp
Kathleen E. Marshall |
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July 5*–August 14
*This opening will be held on the following Friday, July 12th, due to the 4th of July holiday. |
Kieran McGonell (tentative)
Torie McMillan (tentative) |
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August 16–October 2 |
Colin Davis
TBA |
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October 4–November 20 |
Brian Justice
TBA |
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November 22–January 2, 2014 |
TBA |
If you are an LGBTQ artist based in Chicagoland and interested in being considered for a show, please contact our curator David Joseph at davidmjoseph@aol.com.
- Culinary Arts and Job Readiness
Center on Halsted's Silver Fork Program is a nine-week vocational training program for LGBTQ and allied adults who are unemployed or underemployed. Participants receive hands-on training from local chefs in the culinary arts, including cooking, knife handling, sanitation and etiquette. Graduates receive two certificates and receive job placement assistance. For more information and to apply, please visit click here.
- Career Development Workshops
Through corporate partnerships, Center on Halsted is able to provide career development workshops and trainings to assist individuals in the job market. Topics and skills covered include things such as resume building, networking, job searches and interviewing skills. Check the Calendar for upcoming workshops.
Space at Center on Halsted—including our gymnasium, theatre and meeting rooms – is available for rent to community groups, and corporations. Non-profit organizations receive discounted prices. If you would like to rent a space for an event, please check out this page.
We want to hear from you! If you would like more information about our Community and Cultural Programs or want to discuss your ideas, please contact us at culture@centeronhalsted.org or 773.472.6469.
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