2017 CIIP Program Book 2017 CIIP Program Book | Page 25

Community Partner: GLCCB – The Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Community Center of Baltimore
Peer Mentor: Osiris Mancera
Site Supervisor: Mimi Demissew
What is GLCCB?
We provide support, education, outreach, and advocacy for SGL/LGBTQ and our allies through programs, services, and resources.We
provide the community with an affirming space, platforms for free expression, and resources for healthier living.
"Glitter shimmering, shaved ice with so many colors you didn’t know even existed, and more
laughter than I’d heard in a while. You’d think I were talking about a circus or a carnival
even. But no, this was PRIDE! One of the biggest and greatest events on this very planet. I
don’t just say that because I’m working for the organization that single-handedly organizes
and executes the event (parade, block party, festival, and all!!!), but because it’s true. Where
else are you only going to find love and happiness- true freedom of expression. I think THIS
is what our constitution was talking about when it says “Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of
happiness.” And yes, the days were long and sunny, sweat definitely dripped from my
forehead (maybe from the cotton candy colored wig I was sporting), and I had way more
sugar than should be permitted, but it was so fantastic. I cannot imagine the grace and
patience it took to create this masterpiece of beautiful bodies, singing bodies, bodies in
speedos and tutus. It is truly remarkable.
This experience has been humbling because I have chosen to offer myself as a servant, ready
to do anything and everything this office needs of me. And it has not gone unappreciated.
The staff have become family; they were so sweet and kind to me, expressing how grateful
they were for me to be there for the summer. Little do they know, I'm the one who should
be grateful to be involved in such a wonderful organization with such eclectic and successful
people. I’ve been able to create projects out of the blue and do them- really do them. No
micromanaging. No passive-aggression from staff. They really do trust me and I am so
grateful. Because of this freedom- this true freedom- I’m working on so many creative
projects and developing my software skills. I’m making flyers, giveaway advertisements, a
map project, a website mockup, and so much more. This summer is truly a summer for
personal and professional development as well as for really learning more about myself and
what I love." -Osiris
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Managing social media outreach
through infographic and flyer design
and dissemination
Creating a platform of
communications through web
design and photoshop in creative
image creation for general
programming
Assisting in administration overview
and policy management as the
office manager’s assistant
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