Sunny Dunes, a local nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting LGBTQ+ community members find a safe space to attend 12-step recovery meetings, recently marked a significant milestone in furthering its mission.
Civic, community, and business leaders came together Tuesday, Oct. 15 for a ribbon-cutting ceremony and official opening of the expanded Sunny Dunes Clubhouse, 4711 E. Palm Canyon Drive, Ste. B.
“We were gratified at the support this milestone generated,” said Brian Grass, Sunny Dunes director of development. “And in a larger sense, the enthusiasm we witnessed was a testimony to the unity we have found in the Coachella Valley’s LGBTQ+ community and their allies.”
Grass pointed out that addiction can take various forms, and finding a welcoming space for the LGBTQ+ 12-step recovery community has its own unique challenges and barriers to overcome.
“Discrimination, stigma, social isolation, and depression are all issues we face,” Grass said. “We believe a supportive and affirming community is crucial to assist. Our clubhouse is a ‘home base’ to bring together those elements.”
The expanded clubhouse comfortably hosts a greater number of meetings and larger groups than was previously possible. Each day, more than 300 people attend meetings at Sunny Dunes Clubhouse, which represents a safe, welcoming environment for LGBTQ+ community members.
Sunny Dunes is a 501 (c)3 organization founded to provide a safe environment to hold 12-step and other recovery group meetings for the LGBTQ+ recovery community and their allies in Palm Springs and the greater Coachella Valley.
To become a supporting Sunny Dunes Clubhouse member, to start a new meeting, to locate a meeting schedule, or for more information, visit www.sunnydunes.org.
