May 5, 2026
Our speaker this week was our incoming President, Stu Lucker. On Stu's bucket list was speaking about growing up gay and why organizations like LGBTQ+ Allies Lake County are so important to our community. There to support him in his effort were 2 administrators of the LGBTQ+ Allies Lake County, which is the only organization within 30 miles that helps support and provide services for LGBTQ+ community of people.
Stu stated and showed a lot of graphs showing statistics about the LGBTQ+ community. Many feel rejection, lack of social support and affirming spaces. Which in turn leads to LGBTQ+ young people being 4 times more likely to attempt suicide which is the 2nd leading cause of death among young people.
Communities have come a long way in the struggle to accept all people but more definitely needs to be done! The LGBTQ+ Allies hope for a safer, fully inclusive society with equal rights, legal protections against discrimination, and normalized acceptance of diverse gender identities and sexual orientations.
Stu decided to get involved with LGBTQ+ Allies Lake County so others didn't and don't feel like he did all of his life. Their goals align with Stu's, they are giving support to people in the LGBTQ+ community and working to establish a culture where everyone can talk more freely.
Stu Lucker, President Elect.
Betty (Director) and Daphne of LGBTQ+ Allies Lake County, providing support and answers to questions. Our next meeting is May 12, 2026 in the Heritage Hall (the main house) at the Lake County History Center. Our speaker will be Brian Kane, Scholarship Committee Lead. He will be presenting the 2026 Painesville Rotary scholarship recipients.