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Our MissionTo afford the Gay and Lesbian community of Lake, Geauga and Ashtabula Counties with a support network and to act as an extended family. This will be accomplished by providing:
History and PhilosophyHUGS EAST is a group of gay/lesbian/bisexual people, both singles and couples, who, although diverse in terms of age, background, employment, and specific interests, share a common desire to:
At regular meetings, we create activities to share and expand our understanding of our lifestyle and our friendships. Through mutual sharing, caring, listening, talking, and feeling, we believe our group can develop a strong sense of family-community and can reach out as a positive, supportive influence into the larger gay and non-gay communities. To us, HUGS means Hope, Understanding, Giving, and Support. The concept of HUGS, developed by local gay/lesbian/bisexual people as a support network and extended family, had its origins at the Case Western Reserve State-wide Conference for Gay and Lesbians in the spring of 1984.. Following this conference, 25-30 people met to develop a group in which equal leadership responsibilities were given to all members, who took turns developing and presenting programs of mutual interest. Although group membership climbed to about 60 active participants, interest by Cleveland members waned and members from Lake Country assumed full responsibility in 1986, when the organization became known as HUGS EAST. Since that time, HUGS EAST has seen an increase in participation and enjoyed a growing diversity. We welcome your involvement and input on how we can continue to better reach and serve the gay/lesbian/bisexual community and invite you to join us for fun and enlightenment!
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Send mail to
hugseast@hotmail.com with
questions or comments.
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