Grand Opening of 1st LGBTQ+ Center Of Its Kind In Southern Utah
In 2017, Stephenie Larsen founded the LGBTQ+ youth resource center Encircle in Provo. In 2019, the nonprofit opened a second home in Salt Lake City.
Now, thanks to the generosity of philanthropist Brad Clark, Encircle has opened its third home in St. George. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on Oct. 17 at the home at 190 S. 100 E.
"I think (LGBTQ+) individuals are extremely talented, kind, artistic, loving and that the world is a better place because of them," Larsen said. "I think that they are brave and courageous people because I think it takes a lot of courage when you're young to be able to say, 'This is exactly who I am.'“
The Dedication
The home is named after Kim and Terry Turner, LGBTQ+ advocates and the parents of local philanthropist and businessman Jared Turner, who is one of Encircle's major donors. Learn more about Kim and Terry here.
“At the age of 17, Kim and Terry slipped briskly into an intimacy from which they never recovered. Over the past 50 years, that love grew to encompass five children, 10 grandchildren, lifelong friends, international adventures, and fierce advocacy for the LGBTQIA community, immigrants, women, and other minority groups,” Jared Turner said.
“Their examples of kindness, service, joy for life, and unconditional love leaves an indelible mark on everyone they meet. The mission of Encircle aligns with the ethos of Kim and Terry as they too provide a safe refuge for those who need it most.”
Encircle hired St. George native Julie Benson to run the location.
“I am just amazed, totally, totally just so grateful that the community here has been nothing but embracing,” Benson said.
The Design
The structure, built-in 1869, was the Horatio Pickett House. Pickett carried a long list of accomplishments and careers, including lumber yard owner, furniture businessman, carpentry shop owner, mortician, lawyer, justice of the peace, school board member, and choir director.
The gorgeous remodel of the home was overseen by local interior designer April Hickman.
“This is one of the most important projects I have ever worked on,” said Hickman. “Rarely do you have the opportunity to use all of your collective professional experience to make a difference in the world. Designing for a higher purpose was a privilege. Even with as much time as the project required, I have received all of the benefit.”
Much of the costs and materials to build the home were donated at low or no cost to Encircle. “Every time we spoke to the mission of Encircle, local retailers and businesses, such as Arizona Tile, Mountain Land Design, Ivory Homes, The Larkin Family, Split Rock Homes, and Jones Paint & Glass were extraordinarily generous with materials and expertise,” said Jacob Dunford, Chief Operating Officer.
“The creative community rallied around the build of this home. The artisans and painters took such care in their work,” says Dunford. “It was inspiring to see their passion and dedication as they welcomed us to the neighborhood.”
Local artists donated important paintings. Musical instruments, books and art materials have all been provided by local groups, families and individuals supportive of Encircle’s mission.
The Vision Forward
Encircle announced Oct. 15th that all locations would be open to the public again, after being closed due to the pandemic. Drop-in hours are Monday through Thursday from 3 to 7 p.m. Most programs, however, are still being held online.
To support the Encircle consider donating at www.EncircleTogether.org/give
