MoPride

MoPride runs the LGBTQIA+ community center in downtown Modesto and has served Stanislaus County and the wider Central Valley since 2014. The center at 508 13th Street is open for drop-in Wednesday through Friday afternoons, with regular groups built into the week: Teen Tuesday for young people and a Trans Support Circle on Saturdays.

Much of the work is practical. Marsha's Closet gives away free clothing with no ID and no income questions, from baby clothes to extended sizes, and the People's Pantry shares donated bread, canned goods and produce. Through Community Health Advocacy, staff sit down one on one with people to apply for services, update a name or gender marker, and find free or low-cost care. MoPride also brings LGBTQ+ information to community events and gives presentations on topics such as The ABCs of LGBTQ, LGBTQ+ mental health, inclusive sex education, know-your-rights basics and SOGI data collection.

Celebration is part of the mission too. MoPride in the Park, the annual festival with a stage, vendors and resource booths, marked the organization's 10th anniversary in 2024. The spring Pride Picnic at Graceada Park, Rainbow Prom (free for youth ages 13 to 19) and drag fundraisers like Queens of the Dead at The State Theatre round out the calendar.

Neighbors can volunteer at the center or at events, donate clothes and food during open hours, shop the Amazon wish list, give online, or ask about joining the board.