Recent Events Sparks Changes at Side by Side

To our community:

Thank you for your unwavering support of the LGBTQ+ youth we work with to provide life-affirming services. Your commitment to Side by Side is why we have been able to provide services for 30 years. Your dedication remains in place today, for that we are grateful.

We understand that our responsibility is to provide transparent communication about the organization. As you may have heard, several Side by Side program staff resigned last week. The executive director is also stepping down on Feb. 1. There are Side by Side staff who remain in place to support the operations during this time.

We know there are questions and feelings of concern. We will provide an opportunity to listen and share information as we move forward. Stay tuned for updates.

There is no mistaking that Side by Side is at a pivotal moment. As we work through this transition, we are excited and grateful to announce that Lacette Cross is stepping in to be our interim executive director. She is a respected leader in the community and brings with her the unique experience and perspective as a former Side by Side board member and staff person.

With Lacette’s leadership, our board, staff and volunteers are committed to sustaining the vital operations necessary to continue living into our vision of creating supportive communities where Virginia’s LGBTQ+ youth can define themselves, belong, and flourish.

“Side by Side is in a difficult moment that I believe can be transformed into a defining one,” said Lacette. “We will get through this with honest truth telling, a willingness to make hard decisions and a commitment to honoring the dignity and worth of every person connected to Side by Side.”

Side by Side's Board acknowledges the internal work ahead of them. The organization will move forward with transparency, committed to doing the work of reflecting, refocusing and rebuilding at this pivotal time. As part of that work, we will create opportunities for you to offer your insights and express your concerns on the ways we can move from this moment. Your perspectives will be essential to help shape our future.

Again, we appreciate your support and know that above all else we remain steadfast in our commitment to LGBTQ+ youth and their bright futures.