A new drop-in center is now operating in Emporia and it only has one requirement, that visitors come Just As You Are.
Just As You Are Rainbow Sanctuary had its formal introduction to members of the Emporia community Thursday evening during a meet and greet event at its temporary home inside of First United Methodist Church. The drop-in center provides a safe space for members of the local LGBTQ+ community to socialize, interact or just relax according to founder Skye Baxter.
Baxter says the sanctuary has been in the discussion phase for over a year now with major development, including the formation of its board of directors, gaining steam over the last few months. Baxter says the sanctuary is a faith-based organization that welcomes people of all backgrounds religious and non.
Currently housed in the basement of First United Methodist Church, Baxter hopes the organization, in addition to providing a safe and welcoming space to community members, can also help to bridge a gap between members of the LGBTQ+ population and the religious community.
Currently, the sanctuary is only open Thursdays from 6 pm to 9 pm at First United Methodist, however, plans are to eventually purchase a space that will allow for daily hours of operation. Baxter is hopeful a space can be secured within the next six months, however, there is no concrete timetable available just yet.
Additionally, the organization is still in the process of obtaining 501 c(3) status so monetary donations cannot be accepted at this time. However; Baxter invites anyone willing to volunteer their time to contact Just As You Are by visiting their official Facebook page.
