Greetings from Avery Belyou, CEO of the Montrose Center
Photo by Frank Xavier for OutSmart Magazine.
As I wrap up my third week as CEO of the Montrose Center, I wanted to extend a heartfelt thank you for all the kind words, messages, calls, and texts – and, most importantly, for your partnership. I’m truly excited to collaborate with our dedicated board, staff, and volunteers as we chart the course for the Montrose Center’s future, staying true to our mission of empowering Houston’s LGBTQ individuals and their families to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.
Over the next six months, my main focus will be on listening. First and foremost, I intend to listen to our fantastic staff – an incredibly dedicated, passionate, and talented group of individuals. Then, I aim to hear from the broader Houston community. What I’ve quickly realized is that the Montrose Center is more than just a physical space; it’s a vibrant community of people, each with their own story about why the Center is vital to our LGBTQ community. I’m eager to hear your “Montrose Story” and your creative ideas and aspirations for our collective future.
My background working for some of the nation’s leading LGBTQ non-profits on issues spanning mental health and suicide prevention, to civil rights advocacy, and to nonprofit leadership and strategy, fuels my passion for our mission – both professionally and personally. As the first openly transgender CEO of a major LGBTQ center in the nation, I’ve encountered many of the challenges our clients face firsthand. That’s why I’m deeply committed to expanding the Center’s incredible work. Last year alone, we impacted over 52,000 lives, providing over 40,000 meals to those in need, offering vital youth and senior support, and bolstering LGBTQ-affirming behavioral health services – the cornerstone of our work for over 45 years.
Every day, I’m increasingly impressed by the breadth and depth of the services we offer. I invite you to join me on this journey of discovery as I continue to learn about the Center. Please stay connected through our website, social media channels, and newsletters to learn more and explore opportunities to get involved.
If we haven’t met yet, I’d love the chance to connect soon! In the coming months, we’ll be hosting a series of gatherings where I hope to engage directly with our community. I’d be thrilled to see you on March 14 at Bringin’ in the Green or on April 13 at our Empowering Our Future Gala. I’ve heard the Spring Gala is a blast, filled with entertainment, costumes, and fun – I can’t wait to experience it with you!
Many of my colleagues and friends have asked how they can help right now. The best way is to support our mission and daily work financially. Ninety cents of every dollar donated goes directly to supporting our clients. I invite you to donate – simply text ‘Welcome Avery’ to 44-321, or click here.
Thank you once again for your ongoing partnership. I’m truly excited about the journey ahead and the positive impact we’ll create together.
With warmest regards,
—
Avery Belyeu (she/her)
Chief Executive Officer
the Montrose Center
Read more about Avery in this month’s cover story in OutSmart Magazine.