I joined the development committee that founded the LGBT Center of Raleigh in 2005, and have been heavily involved with this undertaking ever since. Having served on the board of directors for the last 4 years I have been overwhelmed at the growth this organization has achieved in such a short time. My work here has given me a new appreciation and respect for the diverse LGBT community, and it has given a meaning to my life that I never knew was possible. Also, as chairman of the Gay & Gray Initiative I have found another very important cause for a segment of the population that has traditionally been underrepresented and in dire need of services. As someone who has never before taken the role of "activist" this Center has pushed me in a new direction and made an important and meaningful change in my life.