Adapting to Change: How We're Continuing to Serve

In these uncertain times, the safety and well-being of LGBTQ+ youth are at the forefront of many hearts and minds. As a mom of three queer adult children, I understand the vital need to support parents who may feel isolated or lack resources. Despite the challenges we face, Joshua Home remains steadfast in our mission to support and uplift our kids.

To ensure we can continue to serve our youth, we've implemented several key strategies that reflect our unwavering commitment:

1. By Appointment Only: We've introduced a registration system for visits to The CENTER, ensuring that everyone who comes in has an appointment. This not only helps us maintain a safe environment but also allows us to give personalized attention to each visitor.

2. Reduced Operating Days: By focusing on fewer days, we're able to concentrate on building a strong infrastructure that ensures safety and sustainability. Our team has been working tirelessly behind the scenes to create a solid foundation for the future.

3. Virtual Support: We're providing ongoing virtual support for parents of LGBTQ+ youth, ensuring they have the resources they need. Our virtual sessions have become a cornerstone of support, offering guidance and a sense of community during challenging times.

4. Toll-Free Hotline: We're in the process of hiring volunteers to staff our toll-free hotline, allowing us to continue to provide critical support and connect youth to essential resources. This initiative reflects our dedication to being there for our youth, no matter where they are.

5. Launching & Re-Launching Programs and Activities:

   We're excited to bring back beloved programs and introduce new ones that reflect the needs and interests of our youth and families. From creative workshops and peer-led groups to parent mentorship and wellness-based activities, we're expanding opportunities for connection, growth, and joy at The CENTER.

6. Strengthening Community Partnerships: We're ramping up our connections with community partners to ensure that our youth have access to the help and services they need. Collaboration is key to building a network of support that extends beyond our doors.

7. Upcoming Annual Back-to-School Event: Mark your calendars for our back-to-school event on July 26, 2025! We're excited to provide essential supplies and support to our kids as they prepare for the new school year.

From My Heart to Yours

In every moment of uncertainty, one truth remains: when we come together, we move forward. Through the changes and the challenges, our community has always found strength in connection, in care, and in compassion. We’ve weathered many seasons, and through it all, we’ve held each other up. We are not alone. Together, we create the kind of love and support that helps us all keep going—and that’s how we’ll get through this time too.

Get Involved: Make a Difference

We invite you to join us in our mission. Whether through volunteering your time or making a donation, your support can make a meaningful impact. Visit Volunteer or Donate to learn more about how you can help.

To our LGBTQ+ youth and their families: you are not alone. We stand with you, and our community is here to support you. Together, we are building a future grounded in love, dignity, and belonging.

Annette Patterson

Founder and Executive Director

Joshua Home an LGBTQ Safe Haven

Photo of Annette Patterson founder of Joshua Home an LGBTQ Safe Haven

Annette is an author, community builder, and advocate whose journey has taken her from the pulpit to the front lines of LGBTQ+ support work. 

As a mother of five—including three queer adult children—and a grandmother of two, her life has been shaped by love, learning, and transformation. 

Today, she leads a nonprofit that supports LGBTQ+ youth and their families, blending her personal journey with her passion for justice, healing, and inclusion. She’s also a lifestyle health coach, encouraging women over 50 to live vibrant, purpose-filled lives.