Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender communities of color are relatively small in Minnesota, making it difficult to sustain organizations focused on a single population.  Recognizing this, the community representatives decided to change strategies and create an organization that encompasses all LGBT communities of color.  This will lead to broader impact, a bigger volunteer and board member pool, and a bigger membership base.  Color CoordiNATION is an umbrella organization, providing connection and support to other, formal and nonformal groups.  This could be a Native American focused 501c3 nonprofit organization, an Elder Lesbian brunch group, or a temporary youth initiative. 

 

Member groups will have one board representative.  The board will also be governed by Tri-Chairs, as a mechanism to avoid burn-out and gaps in leadership.   

 

Business management for small nonprofit organizations is often a challenge.  In an effort to streamline organizational needs, backroom services such as financial management and human resources are contracted from larger entities for a small administrative fee.  This cuts down on waste, promotes accountability and allows Color CoordiNATION to focus on its program areas. 

Organizational History

 

Color CoordiNATION began in the summer of 2007 as a community building and wellness conference for LGBT communities of color.  Originally convened by the African-American AIDS Task Force, approximately 30 organizations and individuals created a foundation of momentum for all LGBT communities of color to to organize in coalition.  Because of the conference's success and the ongoing need for a sustainable LGBT People of Color organization, Color CoordiNATION is being expanded into a formal nonprofit entity. 

 

Over 60 unduplicated community members participated in 6 months of facilitated meetings to establish a strong foundation for this new organization.  The large group created a smaller Steering Committee consisting of individuals with a diverse pool of expertise spanning fundraising, marketing, program development, organizational development, public health, community outreach and evaluation.  Members of the Steering Committee and other community members were seated as the first official board in December 2008.

 

Color CoordiNATION is based in Minneapolis, Minnesota.