Encircle’s 4th LGBTQ+ Center announced for Heber City, Utah
Downtown Heber. Heber Valley is nestled in a mountain valley just south of Park City and approximately 40 miles from Salt Lake City in northern Utah. Encircle Heber will serve an estimated population of 34,000 in the Wasatch back. Credit: Go Heber Valley
In 2017, Stephenie Larsen founded Encircle LGBTQ+ youth & family resource center Encircle in Provo. In 2019, the nonprofit opened a second home in Salt Lake City. Encircle opened its third home in St. George. on Oct. 17 2020. Today, Encircle announced its plan to build its 4th location in Heber City, Utah.
"We have wanted to expand into Heber since inception." Larsen said. "We are so excited to bring our life affirming services to the LGBTQ+ youth and families of the Wasatch back.”
Despite progress, Mayor Kelleen Potter said many LGBTQ teens still feel isolated in Heber City. “In a self-reported survey 12% of our high school students reported that they identify as members of the LGBTQ community. That represents a lot of youth who are vulnerable and need acceptance, love and support. It also represents a lot of families and an entire community that needs resources to better understand how to provide that acceptance, love and support.” Potter said.
“An average of 6-10% of our guests across all of our services come from Wasatch County. This new Encircle location will serve thousands of LGBTQ+ young people.” said Jordan Sgro, Chief Program Officer.
“Together, we can transform the future for LGBTQ+ youth and families living in Heber Utah.”
The front elevation planned for Encircle Heber. This home will have 4 therapy rooms, 2 friendship circle rooms, music room, art room and large gathering area. Construction will cost an estimated $350,000.
Jacob Barney, Chief Development Officer said, “We have seen so much excitement from the community for this home. We are very grateful for our matching partners and the hundreds of donors giving what they can to this campaign.”
During December, donations to the Encircle Heber fund will be matched up to $120,000.
Encircle champion, Boyd Martin has committed to helping Encircle expand. “Encircle helps bridge the gap between community members and their LGBTQ+ friends and family. Encircle’s unique message, ‘No sides, only love.’ unifies communities with one indisputable idea - love. My family and I are proud to support this incredible organization.”
Encircle wants to thank the following individuals and organizations for their support: Senzee Family Foundation, Dan Reynolds & Aja Volkman, Chevron, Amy Trombetti, Cynthia Phillips, Dr. Gregory A. Prince, James Huntsman, Karen & Ira Hammerman, Kevin & Stephanie Christensen, Fidelity Investments, Goldman Sachs, Discover, Connected Therapy, EdXponential, Spedco and the Education Architect.
Encircle estimates this home will open Fall 2021.
