Heart of Winona was founded at the crossroads of unmet needs and fierce advocacy on behalf of the LGBTQIA+ community. Each of our members know first hand the struggles that all too often come with being queer in a rural area. Between a general lack of resources, there is also often little to no sober, all ages spaces for the community to connect. Out of these needs, which felt so near to the heart, our cause to create such spaces in our community of Winona began!

From the beginning, we have been passionate about fulfilling one of the most commonly expressed needs in our community. Through a variety of events in partnership with local businesses, we have grown to hold a wide variety of safe, sober, all-ages spaces and events for the local LGBTQIA+ community.

Heart of Winona was founded this year on April 29th 2024! Since our founding we’ve had the joy of participating in many community events; raising awareness about our cause, and connecting with community members and allies alike.

Since our founding Heart of Winona Has:

Co-hosted the Winona Pride Fest 2024
Participated in 7 Rivers Pride of La Crosse, WI
Created Monthly Board Game Nights during which people of all ages and identities are able to gather together to have fun while building strong community connections.
Hosted a National Coming Out Day clothing swap, which created a space to not only support gender confirmation via clothing, but also to increase accessibility.
Hosted a Tea & Talk; to have impactful community conversations around the topic of ‘Queer Joy’ over afternoon tea.
Partnered with a local queer owned farm to host Skelebration; a queer Halloween party. This allowed a community gathering for a very wide range of ages, to take part in free food, dancing, and to be in an affirming support space for the holiday.
Partnered with a local mental health clinic to host a vigil and community conversation to honor and recognize the lives of those who have been lost to anti-trans violence this year on Trans Day of Remembrance. There was also a grounding activity led by a mental health professional, and sharing of community resources.

Looking ahead Heart of Winona Will:

Launch a Queer Book Club, the first of its kind in our community. The initial interest brought forth over 20 community members of a variety of ages and backgrounds.
Continue our Board Game Nights, Clothing Swaps, and Community Conversations.
Provide education and training geared towards local organizations to ensure that every space can be a safe space for the LGTBQIA+ community.
Continue working towards the goals held in our mission as well as in our hearts; to continue to offer a variety of safe, sober, affirming, LGBTQIA+ spaces. Made by the community, for the community.

We are a young organization, but we have ambition and passion for serving our community within our hearts. By supporting Heart of Winona, you will be directly helping us continue to create these spaces in the community, provide resources and education to those without, and to continue being a positive force within our community. Thank you, from our hearts, for supporting the continual growth towards a healthier and more inclusive local community.

Heart of Winona Fund