AT OUR CORE

At 9 Colors Initiative, our work is rooted in care, justice, and unapologetic community power. We design programs that respond directly to the needs of our community (BIPOC  LGBTQIAA+ individuals)—because safety, wellness, and equity should never be optional.

From affirming health access to creative expression, our programs are shaped by lived experience, led by the community, and built to last.

Health Equity & Wellness

We close the gap in care through culturally responsive health programs & partnerships  grounded in dignity and access.

What we do:

• HIV/AIDS Awareness & Prevention
  Education, outreach, and linkage to affirming testing and care providers.
• Mental Health Advocacy
  Collaborations with LGBTQ+ and BIPOC therapists to reduce stigma and connect individuals to care. Providing access to our Safe Space group program.
• Community Wellness Pop-Ups
  Events offering free screenings, health kits, and harm reduction tools in trusted, inclusive spaces.

We believe healing starts with access. And everyone deserves to be whole.

Cultural & Pride Programming

We create spaces where celebration, resistance, and joy can coexist—loudly and unapologetically.

Key programs:

• Tampa Bay Black Pride (Launching 2026)
  A full weekend of inclusive, affirming events—concerts, panels, beach day, and more.
• Signature Cultural Events
  From community receptions to creative showcases, we center Black & Brown  queer brilliance.
• Support for Ballroom & Creative Communities
  Spaces for self-expression, legacy, and visibility in performance, art, and fashion.

Our culture is power. Our joy is protest. Our presence is the program.

Seasonal & Emergency Resource Support

Because basic needs are not negotiable.

• Thanksgiving Feeding Project
  Our annual initiative delivering meals and support to LGBTQ+  & allied families in need.
• Emergency Resource Drops
  Distribution of hygiene kits, PPE, and affirming care items to underserved individuals.

When systems fall short, we show up.

Education & Advocacy

We challenge bias at the root and create room for people to unlearn, grow, and act.

Offerings include:

• Anti-Bias & Inclusion Training
  Custom workshops for schools, nonprofits, and organizations ready to do better.
• Community Dialogues & Panels
  Public conversations about race, gender, justice, and health led by lived experience.
• Youth & Young Adult Workshops
  Safe spaces for LGBTQ+ youth to explore identity, advocacy, and leadership.

We don’t just educate. We empower.

Leadership & Professional Development

We invest in the future of our movement by uplifting emerging leaders, creators, and advocates.

Opportunities include:

• Professional Development Grants
  Funding for BIPOC LGBTQIAA+ professionals pursuing certifications or credentials.
• Scholarships
  Annual awards for students aligned with our values and mission.
• Creative Microgrants
  Support for grassroots projects, artistic work, and entrepreneurial ideas.

We don’t just build programs—we build people.

Custom Partnerships & Collaborations

We work with schools, city agencies, health partners, and fellow nonprofits to deliver tailored programs across Florida.

Looking to host a panel, offer a training, or co-create an inclusive space?

Let’s talk.

Our Reach

We proudly serve the Central West, Southwest,  Central and South Florida regions, with a growing network of volunteers, advocates, and collaborators. Our impact is grounded in deep relationships, cultural responsiveness, and radical inclusion.

Ready to Get Involved?

Whether you’re looking for support, want to partner, or simply believe in what we do—there’s a place for you here.

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In Every Color, We Show Up

At 9 Colors Initiative, our programs are more than services. They are commitments—to our people, to our future, and to a world where every identity has room to thrive.