About The Phoenix Center
Artwork by Dennis Sklenka, Springfield IL
The Phoenix Center was established on April 1, 2001, by a group of LGBTQ+ teens seeking a safe space. Initially, meetings took place in a garage before relocating to a local church. It was during this time that a Board of Directors was formed, and the organization officially became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.
As our community grew, we moved to a building at Laurel and 2nd Street, and in 2005, we proudly acquired our current home at 109 E. Lawrence Ave. Since this transition, we have significantly expanded our services and programs to better support and empower our community.
Mission
The mission of Phoenix Center is to support and empower Central Illinois’ LGBTQIA+ Community with programming that promotes equity, health, well-being, social and educational growth for individuals of diverse identities and backgrounds.
Vision
It is the vision of the Phoenix Center to create a Central Illinois where all LGBTQIA+ individuals and families are empowered, celebrated, and thriving in a safe, equitable, and supportive community.
Values
Radical Inclusivity
We believe that all LGBTQIA+ people, regardless of race, background, immigration status, or identity, deserve a safe and welcoming space. We actively work to create an environment where everyone feels they belong.
Community Empowerment
We are committed to uplifting our community by providing tools, resources, and knowledge for individuals to advocate for themselves and build a better future. We believe that true change comes from the community itself.
Compassionate Support
We approach our work with empathy and respect, meeting people where they are. Our services are rooted in a non-judgmental and caring approach to health and well-being.
Integrity & Growth
We are dedicated to continuous learning, honest communication, and accountability. We strive to be a trusted resource and are committed to evolving our programs to meet the changing needs of the community.
Equity in Action
We actively work to create a more just and equitable world for our community. We understand that equity is not just about equal treatment but about ensuring everyone has what they need to succeed and thrive.
Open Letter to Our Community
Team and Board Directory
STAFF
Teresa Silva
Executive Director
Team member since 2021
Teresa@phxctr.org
Bobby Ray Perez
Executive Aide & Safety Liason
Team member since 2024
BobbyRay@phxctr.org
Mara
Development Manager
Team member since 2025
mara@phxctr.org
Ruth Ann Bertram
Director of Clinical Services
Team member since 2011
rab@phxctr.org
Eddie
Naloxone Educator
Team member since 2025
Eddie@phxctr.org
YOUTH GROUP FACILITATORS
PCYG@phxctr.org
Caelen
Lead Youth Group Facilitator
Team member since 2026
Vincent
Team member since 2026
Alex
Team member since 2025
Dominic
Team member since 2023
Marz
Team member since 2025
Iza
Team member since 2025
Eddie
Team member since 2026
Lauren
Team member since 2026
Salem
Team member since 2025
TRANSPARENT GROUP FACILITATOR
Gail
Team member since 2019
SHADES GROUP FACILITATOR
Ricki
Team member since 2025
TRANSSUPPORT GROUP FACILITATOR
Kate
Team member since 2022
COMMUNITY MOBILIZATION MANGER
Team member since 2023
Andy
andy@Phxctr.org
OUT ON SECOND EVENTS
OUTonSecond@phoenixcenterspringfield.org
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Board@phxctr.org
Josh Wright
Board President
Chris Ankrom
Vice President
Donnie Killen
Board Treasurer
Candice D Trees
Board Secretary
Galia Cossyleon
Laura Bautista
Ken Lowe
M Cecilia Wendler
Lauren Gleason
Cecilia Wendler
Carolyn Austin