Stickii Gadson

My first leadership training was with in my 8^th grade after school program. Now over the last 7 years I strive to improve my leadership skills. I in high school I was an active Key Club member for 3 years, during this time I cooked for a soup kitchen and helped organize carnation sales to buy Christmas gifts for local kids.

I came out of the closet 6 years ago and found support within OutNow. As I spent time in the organization, I became more and more involved with any community organizing I could through OutNow. That included anything from court solidarity, rallies, and city council meeting, to HIV/AIDS prevention trainings, Suicide Prevention training and Harm Reduction models.

I am now a staff member of OutNow.  Over the years I have had a deep connection with Springfield, the community I was born and raised in.  Together we have built a network of people I can learn from and teach to help my community and others like it.   My vision is an environment where all people feel free to voice themselves and feel welcome.