Head of LGBT Center of Central PA to step down

The executive director of the LGBT Center of Central PA is stepping down. 

Amanda Arbour, who has led the Harrisburg-based center for the past six years, plans to leave at the end of the year, giving the organization time to find a replacement. 

Arbour has overseen the nonprofit organization’s growth, including growing the annual budget from $250,000 to $1 million, increasing staffing from three to seven full-timers, and leading a capital campaign for the recent purchase of the center’s new home at 1323 North Front Street, the LGBT Center said.  

“I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity to lead the center’s impactful work, and I am so proud of all that we’ve accomplished together over the past six years,” said Arbour. “I have learned so much from the amazing staff, board, and community members I’ve worked alongside, and I am confident that the center will continue to do even more life-changing and life-saving work under its next leader.” 

The LGBT Center said Arbour guided the organization with compassion, conviction, and a commitment to fostering inclusive, antiracist communities. 

 Arbour prioritized programs and services for queer and trans people of color and for transgender and non-binary people. In addition to her efforts to open a new home for the organization in Harrisburg, she ushered in significant new housing programs to meet the needs of unhoused community members, the center said. 

“We are very sorry to see Amanda leave, but look forward to her continued growth and success,” said Board Co-Chair TaWanda Stallworth. 

The center’s board and staff express their heartfelt appreciation for the unwavering commitment Arbour has demonstrated to the LGBTQ+ communities we serve across central Pennsylvania, Stallworth added. 

“Amanda Arbour’s compassionate and steadfast leadership has left an indelible mark on the LGBT Center — even prior to the creation of our new home,” said Board Co-Chair Wallace McKelvey. “I’m grateful for the time I spent working alongside Amanda, and for the solid foundation she leaves behind as the center continues this essential work.” 

The center has initiated a comprehensive search for a new executive director to build upon the organization’s foundation in collective liberation and to continue advancing its mission of fostering inclusive communities and holistic well-being for LGBTQ+ people throughout the region. 

Interested candidates can learn more about the position and application process on the center’s website at www.centralpalgbtcenter.org/career. The center is also hiring a new director of Finance & Grants.