Charlotte is home to over a dozen organizations, in all facets of life, that advocate for or serve the LGBTQ community. These LGBTQ-focused organizations provide important networking, advocacy, economic, and health opportunities to Charlotte’s LGBTQ community and allies.
LGBTQ Advocacy Organizations in Charlotte
These organizations advocate for the political rights or social acceptance of the LGBTQ community in Charlotte. Many of these groups have advocated alongside state and national organizations for rights like legalizing gay marriage, LGBTQ-inclusive education, and other issues dear to the hearts of the LGBTQ community.
PFLAG Charlotte
PFLAG, which originally stood for Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays, is a national organization with local chapters in hundreds of cities around the United States. PFLAG Charlotte has been around since 1987 and is one of the oldest organizations advocating for LGBTQ rights in Charlotte.
The group opposes anti-LGBTQ laws and supports families that include LGBTQ members. The organization hosts monthly support group meetings and workshops, and distributes educational resource publications.
There are three ways to get involved with PFLAG Charlotte. You can donate, volunteer at events, or join as a member for dues of as little as $25.
Charlotte Pride
Charlotte Pride presents various programs and activities to promote inclusivity. Most notably, they host the annual Charlotte Pride Festival and Parade, as well as events like Charlotte Latinx Pride, Charlotte Trans Pride, Charlotte Women’s Pride, and Reel Out Charlotte LGBTQ Film Festival.
Since its establishment in 2000, Charlotte Pride has expanded its year-round programming and has now evolved into one of the largest LGBTQ pride organizations in North Carolina and the US Southeast.
If you are interested in contributing to Charlotte Pride’s endeavors, you can become a Friend of Pride by donating to the Charlotte Pride non-profit organization. You can also apply to participate in the parade or as a vendor in the Charlotte Pride Festival in August.
Charlotte Black Pride
Charlotte Black Pride is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting a positive image of LGBTQ individuals of color. They aim to build social awareness, celebrate diversity, and embrace spirituality within the Black community.
The organization hosts various events during Charlotte Black Pride Week in July. Events include a Peace Rally, Wellness Party, and Black Pride Expo featuring vendors and entertainers.
They also offer volunteer opportunities and encourage sponsorship and vendor participation to support their vision of empowering and uplifting the LGBTQ community.
LGBTQ Business Organizations in Charlotte
These organizations promote LGBTQ excellence in business and offer networking opportunities to LGBTQ and allied professionals.
Carolinas LGBT+ Chamber of Commerce
The Carolinas LGBT+ Chamber of Commerce traces its roots back to 1992 when it was founded as the Charlotte Business Guild. Originally established as a safe networking space for LGBTQ business owners and professionals, the group evolved into a prominent business and professional entity in Charlotte.
In 2015, it officially became the Charlotte LGBT Chamber of Commerce, embracing the idea that “coming out is good for business.” The Chamber hosts workshops, seminars, and a job board to foster professional development. It actively advocates for positive economic, social, and political outcomes for queer people.
You can apply to join as a member, regardless of whether you own a business or whether you identify as LGBTQ, on the organization’s website. Members get free or discounted access to the group’s events and help support equality and economic prosperity in the LGBTQ community.
Pauli Murray LGBTQ Bar Association
The Pauli Murray LGBTQ Bar Association is a network of legal professionals in North Carolina dedicated to supporting LGBTQ+ equality. The association draws inspiration from Pauli Murray, an influential activist, priest, and human rights lawyer who played a vital role in civil rights movements.
Lawyers, law students, and other professionals in the North Carolina legal industry can apply to become a member. Membership benefits include educational programs, networking opportunities, and mentorship. Read our guide to LGBT-friendly lawyers in Charlotte, NC for more recommendations on queer-friendly legal advisors in the city.
LGBTQ Hobby Organizations in Charlotte
There are many ways to have fun and meet people in Charlotte’s queer community. The below organizations are centered around queer people and allies having fun and participating in a mutual interest, like gaming, sports, or the arts.
Stonewall Sports Charlotte
Stonewall Sports is a national organization focused on LGBTQ-inclusive sports leagues, with chapters around the country. With over 2000 players per year, Stonewall Sports Charlotte offers 8 sports seasons throughout the year, welcoming players of all skill levels.
The organization promotes connection, casual play, and community involvement. Stonewall Sports provides opportunities to meet new people, stay active, and give back to the local community.
Stonewall Sports Charlotte emphasizes inclusivity and zero tolerance for bullying or harassment. They prioritize creating a safe and supportive environment for LGBTQ+ ally players.
In addition to its sports activities, the organization has a strong philanthropic commitment, having donated over $125,000 to various local charities and organizations. Get involved by donating or joining a league as a team, with a friend, or individually.
Charlotte Gaymers Network
The Charlotte Gaymers Network (CGN) was founded to provide a sense of community and connection for LGBTQ+ individuals during the pandemic. Embracing a love for gaming, CGN offers a diverse and inclusive environment where members can enjoy board games, tabletop games, and video games together.
CGN’s signature event, Gaymer Gathering, offers an immersive gaming experience, including an open bar, drag entertainment, and networking opportunities. CGN events are often in partnership with another charity organization, and guests and members can donate funds or food to assist in the group’s charitable efforts.
By becoming a CGN+ Member, individuals can support the organization and enjoy additional perks including members-only events and free admission to certain events.
Gay Men’s Chorus of Charlotte
Gay Men’s Chorus of Charlotte, together with the Women’s Chorus of Charlotte, aims to use artistic excellence, education, and engagement to increase respect and understanding for LGBTQ individuals in society. The group’s host venue is St. Martin’s Episcopal Church in Charlotte.
They perform multiple times throughout the year, including performances during Charlotte Pride and the holiday season. The chorus also actively engages in community outreach programs, benefiting various causes such as HIV/AIDS, LGBTQ youth, senior citizens, and school and church choral programs.
If you’re interested in supporting their mission or participating in their programs, including volunteering or becoming a financial supporter, reach out directly using the contact information on their website.
One Voice Chorus
Another LGBTQ-focused musical group based in Charlotte, One Voice Chorus, is open to individuals of all genders. One Voice Chorus is a non-auditioned group with a similar mission to the Gay Men’s Chorus, to increase acceptance of the LGBTQ community through music. The organization was founded in 1990.
One Voice Chorus hosts and participates in performances as well as other fun community events throughout the year. Learn about upcoming events on their event calendar.
Charlotte Royals Rugby Team
One of the more unexpected entries to this list, the Charlotte Royals are a queer-inclusive rugby team based in Charlotte. The team is associated with IGR, or International Gay Rugby, and plays three seasons each year. It also hosts an annual tournament featuring dozens of teams from around the country.
More than playing rugby, the Royals are also advocates for inclusion and promote a strict standard of respect amongst its players and fans. They also teach the community about Rugby. You can apply to join as a playing or non-playing member on their website or attend a game or practice, which are open to the public.
Carolina Piedmont Softball Association
Carolina Piedmont Softball Association is dedicated to creating a safe and inclusive environment for LGBTQ individuals in Charlotte who share a passion for softball. As the sole LGBTQ softball league in the city, CPSA prioritizes building a close-knit community, fostering acceptance, and offering a welcoming space for players of all skill levels.
The group is affiliated with NAGAAA (North American Gay Amateur Athletic Alliance), which offers LGBTQ softball players the chance to potentially participate in the Gay Softball World Series. The association also hosts an intercity tournament known as the Queen City Classic, and organizes fall and spring softball seasons in Charlotte and Raleigh.
LGBTQ Youth & Elder Organizations in Charlotte
Time Out Youth
Time Out Youth Center provides a welcoming and inclusive space for LGBTQ+ youth ages 13-24. The center offers support, advocacy, and personal development opportunities, and prioritizes creating a safe environment that respects each individual’s journey and identity.
The center hosts various programs and activities including discussion groups, movie nights, and health and wellness counseling. Additionally, Time Out Youth Center engages in school outreach, providing training, workshops, and support for LGBTQ clubs and inclusive school policies.
Time Out Youth Center also offers resources and guidance to parents and adults interested in supporting LGBTQ youth in their lives. To learn how to get involved, check out the organization’s website and event calendar.
Charlotte LGBTQ Elders
Charlotte LGBTQ Elders is a community organization established in 2018 to support LGBTQ elders aged 55+ in Charlotte. Their mission centers around creating a sense of belonging, equity, and affirmation for all community members through education, advocacy, and inclusive engagement opportunities.
To get involved with Charlotte LGBTQ Elders, individuals can attend their monthly programs and social events designed for elders to foster connections and learn about issues affecting seniors.
Trans-Focused Organizations in Charlotte
Transcend Charlotte
Transcend Charlotte is a nonprofit organization that offers free and low-cost mental health, social support, and education services to trans and gender-expansive individuals in Mecklenburg County and the surrounding areas.
The organization offers counseling, support groups, and wardrobe assistance to transitioning individuals. Individuals interested in counseling can schedule a 15-minute consultation to discuss their needs and goals. Afterward, they go through an assessment to inform their care plan, followed by 50-minute sessions as frequently as desired.
Learn how to apply for counseling, donate, or volunteer to assist the organization on the Transcend Charlotte website.
Charlotte Trans Health
Charlotte Trans Health is an organization in the greater Charlotte area that focuses on improving healthcare for transgender individuals. They want to ensure that healthcare providers have the knowledge and skills to provide the best care possible.
The group started in 2012 with a team of providers, including doctors and mental health professionals, who wanted to create a strong community for gender-diverse individuals.
If you’re a healthcare provider, you can get involved by attending their meetings and accessing educational resources. They offer training sessions and resources to help providers improve their understanding of transgender healthcare.
If you are an LGBTQ individual seeking LGBTQ-friendly healthcare in Charlotte, Charlotte Trans Health offers a directory of trans-friendly care providers. Also check out our guide on LGBTQ-friendly doctors and counselors in Charlotte.
Other LGBTQ Organizations in Charlotte
The Plus Collective
This organization is the most influential local LGBTQ organization that you have never heard of. The Plus Collective is actually a division of a larger charitable organization, the Foundation for the Carolinas. The collective is known as Charlotte’s LGBTQ Community Fund and has issued hundreds of grants to nearly all of the other organizations listed on this page.
Check out the Plus Collective’s website for information about past grantees dating back to 2007. Some of the organizations the collective has supported include Time Out Youth, PFLAG Charlotte, Stonewall Sports, Transcend Health, and many more.
Twirl to the World
Twirl to the World is a Charlotte-based charity that started in 2009 with a simple premise – the group would throw a party, and the price of admission was a teddy bear for a child with HIV. Now, the group hosts parties and other events throughout the year to raise funds for the LGBTQ community, including direct assistance to individuals experiencing a crisis.
Affirming LGBTQ Churches
There are dozens of affirming churches in Charlotte. In many cases, these churches go beyond accepting LGBTQ members. Many Charlotte churches actively advocate for LGBTQ rights, in addition to the rights of other historically oppressed groups.
Final Thoughts – Additional LGBTQ Organizations
Do you know of any additional organizations that bring together or advocate the LGBTQ community in Charlotte? If you think another organization belongs on this list, please contact us.
