'HERE AT HOME.' The Queer Collaborative, a new nonprofit in Eau Claire, has begun to host recurring events for queer adults and allies in the community. Its board of directors (pictured) bring a diverse array of expertise in event organizing and community activism to the effort – all with the goal to nourish connection and leadership. (Submitted photo)

In the Chippewa Valley, many adults still find themselves in search of genuine community with others who share similar lived experiences and identities. Enter, The Queer Collaborative – a new local nonprofit chock-full of events for LGBTQIA+ persons and allies to connect and find a sense of belonging.

“We have so many great drag shows, socials and local events,” Adam Mullis, board president of The Queer Collaborative, shared ahead of the nonprofit’s first open house on Aug. 16. “While our hope is to build new programming, it’s important to acknowledge that we’re building off a really great foundation.”

Travis Gorell, a small business owner, community organizer and creative behind drag queen Khloe Wold, launched The Queer Collaborative in March of this year. His vision was born from a continued realization: queer adults in the region were still in need of consistent, intentional spaces to not only replace feelings of isolation – but nourish leadership.

Following its inaugural event in Eau Claire, The Queer Collaborative has organized social outings at the Eau Claire Downtown Farmers Market and has a diverse lineup of activities planned for the month of September.

From tabling events at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, clothing swaps, drag and karaoke nights – plus, a new “Gay Soiree” event at The Rev (204 S. Barstow St., Eau Claire) – these efforts aim to ensure “everyone can see themselves thriving, right here at home.”

Upcoming events with The Queer Collaborative

Clothing Swap at The Coven

• When: 6-8pm on Thursday, Sept. 10
• Where: The Coven (131 S. Barstow St., Suite 202, Eau Claire)
• What: Bring your gently used clothing and make some trades with other locals / The Queer Collaborative will provide tables and clothing racks to use

Fall Festival & Drag Shows

• When: 11am-4pm; 9:30-11pm on Saturday, Sept. 12
• Where: The Fire House (202 Gibson St., Eau Claire)
• What: Come see members of The Queer Collaborative participate in the annual dunk tank fundraiser (3-4pm) and a drag show (3:30-4:30pm)
  • An additional drag performance (free to attend) will occur from 9:30-11pm inside The Fire House / Must be 21+ to enter

T4T(EA) at Black Kettle Tea & Bootique

• When: 4-6pm on Friday, Sept. 18
• Where: Black Kettle Tea & Bootique (217 N. Barstow St., Eau Claire)
• What: Stop by Black Kettle for a “T” party! Meet other trans, non-binary, and gender-non-conforming locals; sip some tea, maybe spill some tea, all while building community

With the support of Mullis and Kallie Copland – two of the nonprofit’s nine total board members – Gorell has gathered a group of locals with varied professional backgrounds. Together, they intend to combine interests and expand The Queer Collaborative’s programming outside of Eau Claire.

Mullis acknowledged these initial organizing efforts will lean on what programming already thrives locally. Established orgs including the Chippewa Valley LGBTQ+ Community Center are top of mind looking to collaborate in events like Pride in the Park, Queer Prom, support groups and more.

The Queer Collaborative is also deeply receptive to local input, Mullis added. Whether it be in person or online, the nonprofit hopes to establish accessible means for residents to voice their desires and interests for future programming.

Locals can learn more about the nonprofit’s current board of directors online; looking ahead, smaller subcommittees will be formed for fundraising, event planning and other nonprofit responsibilities.

“The queer community is vast and has a myriad of intersecting identities that create unique lived experiences for everyone,” Mullis said. “Our board of directors cannot encapsulate all of the intersections of identity that exist here.”

“We can, however, take the time to truly listen and get to know the folks that are looking to get involved with The Queer Collaborative so we can build trust and move forward together,” Mullis said.

Learn more about The Queer Collaborative and view its upcoming schedule of events, online at queercollab.org. Interested in becoming involved or hosting an event with the nonprofit? Connect with Adam Mullis, online at thequeercollab.ec@gmail.com.