William Way LGBT Community Center to sell Spruce Street building

The William Way LGBT Community Center, a vital resource for the LGBTQ+ community in Philadelphia, will sell its Spruce Street building and relocate due to unmet fundraising goals for renovations. Established in 1975 and serving over 15,000 individuals annually, the center has been a cornerstone of support at its current location for 29 years. The decision follows emergency repairs costing over $3. 5 million, highlighting the urgent need for a more sustainable facility. Chief Operating Officer Darius McLean noted that the move underscores the center's commitment to accessible and affirming spaces for the community's future.

Leaders, including Board Co-chair Laura Ryan, emphasized that this transition occurs amid increasing threats to LGBTQIA+ rights nationwide. The center will maintain virtual programming developed during the pandemic to ensure ongoing accessibility. Additionally, many staff members have taken pay reductions to keep operations running on a limited schedule until a permanent solution is found. The heart of the William Way remains its people and programs, according to Board Co-chair Dave Huting.