DETROIT – LGBT Detroit — a Michigan based nonprofit focusing on youth development, cultural awareness and advocacy, as well as emotional and physical well-being of LGBT Detroiters — has added a member to its executive team.
Andre Gilford, Jr. has been named the new development coordinator for LGBT Detroit and will serve in that capacity until the fall. As development coordinator, Gilford will be responsible for raising funds for LGBT Detroit's annual signature event, Hotter Than July.
"Hotter Than July is Detroit's own tradition and to be a part of upholding that tradition is an honor," Gilford said.
Gilford is a native of Detroit and a graduate of the LGBT Detroit Leadership Academy. He received his bachelor of arts degree in history and African-American studies from Wayne State University and will pursue a Master of Divinity degree at Candler School of Theology at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia in the fall.
As a graduate of the LGBT Detroit Leadership Academy, Gilford returns to the organization with a passion for working in the LGBT community, particularly with youth and faith initiatives. Gilford was a member of the LGBT Detroit Forever Faithful Project, where he was instrumental in bringing together faith leaders from across the Metro Detroit area to discuss open and affirming theology, particularly advocating for the inclusion of LGBT individuals within African-American congregations. As a part of this work, Gilford also worked to establish inclusive policies at his local congregation for LGBT individuals.
Gilford can be reached at [email protected].
