As The Center’s staff and board examine and compile the last 3 months of the community’s input – from responses to one of our community surveys (more than 2,000), to interviews and group meetings, to comments on our Facebook page, blogs and our Web site – a few things are clear. Not surprisingly, there are some things that not all can agree upon; however, there are resounding themes from a clear majority of responders.

One area of almost complete agreement is the ongoing relevance of The Center’s twin mission: continue the daily work toward equality and provide services, care and support for our community. This dual focus and willingness to provide, particularly for those among us who are most vulnerable, is a part of the long history of both the San Diego GLBT community and The Center. What is even more inspiring is the deep commitment to caring for our own that continues to abide even in the worst economic crisis in recent years.

I was moved as I read the comments from so many people about services — and not just services for “people like them.” Often, when surveys ask about prioritizing services, people respond either by prioritizing those that are most like them or by elevating one group above another. It’s a human thing to do. But that’s not what happened. Most people responded by saying, “I think all these groups need help and services: seniors, youth, Latinos, those living with HIV, cancer and other diseases, families, men, women…all of them. And I am proud that our community cares for all of them .”

Many other comments included things like, “Some of these questions include what you can do to better serve me. I’ll answer those, but the most important thing is that we keep helping the others who have not been as fortunate as me.” And, “We need to keep lifting up those in our community who are struggling. When they get help our community gets stronger!” Perhaps the most moving were responses from the more than 200 volunteers who responded to a satisfaction survey about their volunteer experiences. When asked how we could better recognize all of their contributions, more than 75 percent of them said, “I don’t do this for recognition. I do this to help!”

We will continue to cull through the data to make sure we are hearing all voices. When that is complete we will issue the final summary. But it is clear already that San Diego cares about its own – and that’s incredibly inspiring!

We also received many requests for more fun, affordable events to help everyone through these leaner times. This year we’ve added, and found ways to continue, a few things we hope will interest a variety of folks:

On the third Tuesday of the month, Two Cents with Aaron Heier provides an entertaining, informative and interactive social event featuring Aaron interviewing the men who move San Diego’s GLBT community. Enjoy an informal talk show-style format followed by a mix and mingle cocktail hour featuring tasty nosh from Gossip Grill. This event is free and both men and women are welcome.

Have a hankering for an evening of board games, card games and pizza? Like the sound of a free monthly social event for guys 21+, where you’ll meet interesting men of all ages? Then don’t miss Guys, Games & Grub on the first Wednesday of every month.

Coffee & Conversation with Cool Women features Tryce Czyczynska interviewing fabulous women from the community on the first Tuesday of the month. This event is also free and both men and women are welcome.

On Saturday, March 6, Family Matters is hosting another Clothing and Toy Swap. Bring in clothes and toys in good condition that your kids have outgrown and swap them for “new” ones. A $5 donation is requested and arts & crafts will be set up to keep the kids entertained while you shop.

The Community Yard Sale kicks off on Saturday, March 20. Clean out your closets, cabinets, garage and attic, and donate the reusable items to The Center now, then come back to shop for hidden treasures on the 20th.

Want to learn more about love, sex, intimacy and happy families? The San Diego Psychological Association LGBT Committee will be presenting a series of free two-hour educational and self-help seminars at the San Diego LGBT Community Center, beginning Wednesday, March 25 at 6 p.m. There’s something for everyone, so attend every workshop that interests you.

50 and Better Together offers the monthly Lunch & Learn series, which covers topics ranging from navigating your Medicare options to financial planning for retirement.

For more information on these and other events, sign up for our enews at www.thecentersd.org or visit us at www.facebook.com/At.The.Center.