Families For Private Adoption

Families For Private Adoption - Logo
Families For Private Adoption – Logo

Families For Private Adoption

Thinking about adopting? Families for Private Adoption (ffpa.org) is a not for profit agency that can help your family through the adoption process. The FPA supports and educates parents who are looking to grow their family with the aid of private adoption. Additionally, the FPA works around the many religious-based adoption agencies to specifically help LGBT families with adopting.

To meet their mission, Families for Private Adoption offers two training classes each year. They teach parents looking to adopt how to get through all the red tape and adopt a beautiful, worthwhile child. The FPA holds adoption training workshops in Phoenix, AZ. They will hold more workshops as their need for training increases. Please, click here for Adoption Training Workshops near you!

Families For Private Adoption - Loving Family
Families For Private Adoption – Loving Family

Why Trust Families for Private Adoption?

Families for Private Adoption has been serving the LGBTQ community since its inception, in 1984. In fact, it is the oldest non-profit organization in private adoption. Until 2015, all workshops were held in the Washington D.C. area. However, we recently expanded our reach and are now offering this workshop in Phoenix, Arizona.

We have recruited the state’s top-notch attorneys (all AAAA) and adoption professionals that are all encouraging and accepting of LGBTQ adoption. The aim of the workshop is to educate prospective adoptive parents on how to independently adopt in the state of Arizona. This includes presentations from attorneys, social workers, birth mothers, and adoptive parents. Prospective adoptive parents leave this workshop equipped to adopt, from start-to-finish. Topics include Arizona adoption law, ICPC, birth mom search strategies, home study requirements, communication with birth parents, and funding.

The unique nature of FPA is that we are all volunteers. No one gets paid-most of us are adoptive parents that simply wish to pay it forward. Our organization not only provides bi-annual workshops, but also “buddy” mentors for the adoption process and social events to encourage collaboration.

The FPA is making great friends as well! Currently, the FPA is working with Equality Arizona on Project Jigsaw. Project Jigsaw spreads the word about private adoption as a viable family building option for LGBT individuals and families.

I look forward to all the great things coming out of Families for Private Adoption in the near future.

Have a great day,

Tony Ray 🙂

Families For Private Adoption - Another Loving Family
Families For Private Adoption – Another Loving Family

Southern Arizona Psychology

Southern Arizona Psychology
Southern Arizona Psychology

Bryce Paradis, MA, started Southern Arizona Psychology after years of professional experience working with children, young adults, and adults in diverse settings. Ranging from private practice consultations to community mental health and professional athletics. Bryce, a South Dakota native, has resided in Southern Arizona since 2015. Bryce’s background in Freudian psychotherapy has been integrated into the treatment of protocols in private practice, community mental health, professional athletic organizations, and family medical practices and training programs.

Southern AZ Psych
Bryce Paradis, MA

Bryce has received extensive training in improving the lives of individuals experiencing various areas of mental and emotional discomfort or distress. As a master’s level professional Bryce has years of professional experience working with individuals who experience moderate to severe mental health issues struggle with addiction and life/functional difficulties in response to personal trauma. As a member of the LGBTQ community, Bryce provides first-hand knowledge and understanding of the struggles that the community faces in his clinical practice and interventions.

The Mission

Southern Arizona Psychology operates with the mission and goal of providing patients with top-of-the-line mental health services. Your well-being is the number one priority. Southern Arizona Psychology goes above and beyond to cater to the needs of every client with gold standard personalized services. Services provided by Southern Arizona Psychology include couples coaching, individual coaching, family coaching, and athletic performance/mental health coaching. Emotional and behavioral issues are addressed by guiding patients every step of the way and implementing various methods to help individuals develop new attitudes towards all of life’s most complex matters. The goal of the process is to solve current problems and improve positive thinking and behavior. I will help you “re-frame” your reactions and provide you with valuable tools to cope with life’s obstacles.

Southern AZ Psych exterior
Southern AZ Psych exterior

Personal growth and the cultivation of self (self-discovery, self-worth, and self-esteem) is paramount to Southern Arizona Psychology’s practice. It is our mission to provide our clients with tools, emotional regulation, and positive self-worth to lead healthy, productive, and fulfilling lives.

Contact

Southern AZ Psych Logo

Company Name: Southern Arizona Psychology, LLC
Office Address: 183 W. Broadway, Tucson AZ 85701 (Downtown Tucson &
Via Zoom)
Contact Name (s): Bryce Paradis, MA
Phone: (424) 234-9591
Pricing: $80 – $100 per session (sliding scale available based on income and/or economic hardship).
Website: www.southernAZpsych.com
Office hours: 7 Days a week based on appointment availability

Southern AZ Pych Services Graphic
Southern AZ Pychology Services

Creatively Queer Press

creatively queer press logoHave you ever felt seen, valued, or important? Here at Creatively Queer Press, we want everyone to experience that feeling through the media they consume. We’ve seen in popular media that many people in the LGBTQ+ or BIPOC communities lack representation with accuracy or empathy if represented at all.

Our mission as a publishing company is to change that. We look to media for versions of ourselves and for visions of who we could be. If we don’t see ourselves represented then our dreams can feel limited, or at worst, discouraged. Diversity is something we believe should be visible and celebrated.

The Media

Cuentos CoverOne of our first publications does that for the queer Latinx community: Cuentos. This bilingual Latinx mythology art anthology came to fruition by our Creatively Queer Press team. With the help of two dozen queer Latinx artists and writers. Every entry is a painting or illustration about a myth, legend, or creature from folklore. The artworks are accompanied by either fiction or non-fiction writing about the subject in both Spanish and English.

Through Cuentos our founder Luis Silva discovered our first editor for the CQP team: A. Dante Bravo. Originally a contributing artist and writer, Dante took on the task of editing the book layout and running the Kickstarter campaign to raise funds for the print books of Cuentos. To help finish Cuentos, our second editor Joelle Blot was also invited to join us on the book’s publishing journey. Together our team of three queer creators works to share our books all across the town of Tucson, AZ, and far beyond. By collaborating with queer and POC creatives from all over the world, Creatively Queer Press strives to create and publish accessible entertainment for fans of all genres of comic books, art anthologies, gaming books, and so much more.

We are also working towards building an animation team to help us create groundbreaking animated films that serve our mission of inclusive representation. We invite everyone who values diversity to discover a new favorite on our website at www.creativelyqueerpress.com

The Tucson Museum of Art

the Tucson Museum of Art
Kasser Family Wing of Latin American Art exterior

The Tucson Museum of Art has been a leader in the fine arts and education in Southern Arizona for nearly a century. It was established in 1924 and is in Tucson’s historic downtown and moved to its current location in 1975. TMA features permanent and traveling exhibitions of Modern and Contemporary, Indigen

Patrick Martinez work at the Tucson Museum of Art
Patrick Martinez’ neon signs on view in the Kasser Family Wing of Latin American Art

ous, American West, Latin American, European, and Asian art. The museum resides on a four-acre campus, and its exhibits and arts education programs are central to its mission. In addition, the museum hosts events serves as a steward of five historic properties and has a 6,800-square-foot art education center and research library. It has a permanent collection of over 12,000 works spanning continents, centuries, and media.

TMA
View of the gallery for Latin American Folk Art

The museum will take you on a journey through art, history, and culture and with artwork ranging from ancient to contemporary, there is something for everyone! Thousands of lives have been enriched by the museum’s programs and exhibitions including: an award-winning outreach program serving Tucson’s refugee community, robust k-12 programs, one of the state’s longest-running biennial exhibitions, public programs, and lifelong learning programs like TMALearn! Docents. The museum provides numerous opportunities to connect and engage with the arts and local community, such as free First Thursday and Second SundAZe, lecture series, annual spring and fall artisans market, youth studio programs, K-12 field trips, and more!

The Tucson Museum of Art Summer Camp Class
Teacher leading a group of students during summer camp

Reviews 

“This place is a quiet gem. It was so much more than what we expected. Masterful artworks on careful display. I’m no art expert but I found this museum to be an excellent way to spend a relaxing few hours. Although as an introvert I found myself exhausted after exploring the many displays. Go if you haven’t been!  We also enjoyed salad for lunch at the attached café.”

Paul H on Yelp 9/27/2021

“The Tucson Museum of Art was a great stop. We took three generations of our family to visit it. The layout of the museum is expansive. We covered a lot of ground (not all of the buildings were open, so we didn’t get to see everything) over a two-hour period.

The exhibits on display were definitely thought-provoking and got us talking about topics that may not have come up otherwise. I’m glad we made the trip there for the discussions it invoked.

Wear comfortable shoes and plan enough time to really soak everything in!”

Karl A on Yelp—1/11/2019

Tucson Museum of Art
North Entrance to TMA

Tucson Museum of Art and Historic Block

Office Address: 140 North Main Avenue, Tucson, AZ 85701

Contact Name (s): Marianna Pegno

Phone (s): 520-624-2333

As of July 1, 2023 the following will go into effect for hours and pricing related to admissions:

HOURS
Wednesday – Sunday 10 am – 5 pm
First Thursday of every month 10 am – 8 pm

ADMISSION
General $15
Senior/ Educator $12
College Students $10
17 and under/ Veterans and Military/ Members – Free

TOURS
PreK – 12 Student $7
Art-making $5 ($12 total)

NOTE: Discounts for College and Senior tours will no longer be offered.

Bob Hunt – Message Therapist

Bob Hunt – Massage Therapist

Massage the way you like it. You describe your needs and I will design a massage to assist with your needs. Your satisfaction is my largest concern. Call Bob in Tucson 760-578-4003. Rates start at $80 per hour. Enjoy Swedish, deep tissue, Hawaiian Lomi Lomi massage, sports massage or Therapeutic massage. Just want to relax, Lomi Lomi massage is a great way to relax, with long deep strokes up and down the body. Give me a call so I can help!

When we meet we go through where in your body you are in pain or stiff and I will build a massage designed around your needs. I have many different modalities to relieve your pain or stiff neck or back. And there is nothing to lose, on your first experience with me if you do not like the massage, you don’t pay! But that has never happened in my 20 plus years of massage, so give us a call Bob at 760-578-4003!

& Gallery

& Gallery is owned and overseen by East Sleep Work and is an art gallery unlike any other in Tucson. While many galleries here focus on Southwest fine art & Gallery takes an entirely different approach. Here you will find zines, sequential art, low brow art, anime, and so much more. They showcase local Arizona artists and give them a place to shine that’s off the beaten path.

A New Beginning

& Gallery Interior
& Gallery Interior

In 2019 the &G moved from its small space at Grand and Stone to 4th avenue, the hub of downtown Tucson. Since its grand reopening, the gallery has put on numerous exhibitions showcasing local talent and forward-thinking artists. Its mission is to not only lift up locals but offer them a safe space to showcase their art. Tucson itself is touted as a queer-inclusive city but it’s important to & Gallery to actually take action and do the work. While all are welcome only those with good intentions get to stay.

Cynthia Naugle is the gallery manager, event coordinator, and social media maven. Through her connections in the community, she continues to put on exciting events and brings new opportunities to artists who formally only had an online audience.

“One of our big missions here is to amplify artists. We want to make sure we’re taking our artists to the next level. I love our group shows and we can do them all the time but if we’re not pushing you to be better, for each piece to be better… well we’ve just got to have that growth.” -Cynthia Naugle

Aside from regular group shows and exhibitions, this gallery offers tons of merchandise. From original artwork to prints and stickers there’s something for everyone at reasonable prices. Print and photography services are also available and if they can’t do it they will point you to the people who can.

& Gallery
& Gallery shot by Velvet & Shadow

Networking nights are something new &G is trying out. Each meetup will have a theme, such as musicians or digital artists but all are welcome to attend. Getting the right information and tools to artists is just as important as getting the art made. The gallery is building a beautiful artists community here in Tucson and everyone should drop in and check them out.

Contact Details

Company Name: & Gallery
Office Address: 419 N 4th Ave, Tucson, AZ 85705
Contact Name: Cynthia Naugle
Phone: (520) 258-8451
Pricing: varies
Website: https://www.andgallery.art/
Office hours: Open 12-6 pm Thursday-Monday
Closed Tuesday and Wednesday

& Gallery Anime
& Gallery Anime

Mobility Plus

Mobility Plus

Mobility Plus Tucson Showroom

Mobility Plus

(520) 225-0415

Hours: Monday-Friday 9:00-5:00, Saturday 9:00-3:00

Locations:

Mobility Plus
245 S Tucson Blvd Ste 2
Tucson AZ 85719

Mobility Plus
10861 N Mavinee Dr Ste 155
Oro Valley AZ 85737

Mobility Plus
9140 N Silverbell Rd Ste 120
Marana AZ 84743

Mobility Plus is a locally owned small business and it is operated by Gary & Dan Ross. They are proud to be part of Tucson’s LGBTQ community and Gary is a veteran with over 25 years of service. Mobility Plus is a franchise that offers sales, repairs, installations, and rentals of scooters, ramps, lifts, and more. Gary & Dan opened their first location in Central Tucson, and they plan to open a location in Oro Valley and in East Tucson.

Gary was a Midshipman at the United States Naval Academy and Dan was a Flight Attendant at US Airways when they met in 2000. They were living in Tucson when they made headlines in 2011 by becoming the first same-sex military couple to legally marry following the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.” Gary & Dan also successfully challenged the constitutionality of the so-called “Defense of Marriage Act” when it comes to military spousal benefits.

Gary received new military orders, so they moved away from Tucson. However, Gary and Dan left their hearts in Tucson, and they dreamed about returning. Their dream became a reality when they purchased a Tucson home in 2019 and moved permanently in 2020. They have enjoyed reuniting with old friends and making new friends. Gary and Dan adore the Old Pueblo because of the sunshine, warmth, history, and culture—not to mention Tucson is a UNESCO City of Gastronomy!

Gary and Dan researched several business opportunities before they decided to open Mobility Plus. “We improve people’s lives by consulting with them to find the right solutions for their mobility needs,” says Gary Ross. “We help people maintain their independence and age in place in the homes they love,” says Dan Ross. Mobility Plus is committed to exceeding its client’s expectations by offering internet pricing along with personalized service, delivery, and installation.

Mobility Plus Storefront
Mobility Plus Storefront

Stillwater Catering

Location: Tucson, AZ
Phone: (707) 380-3495
Email: Stillwater-Catering.com/contact-us
Website: Stillwater-Catering.com
Instagram: @StillwaterCatering

Short Description
Stillwater Catering is a boutique catering service offering personalized culinary experiences for a variety of events in Tucson. From weddings and corporate gatherings to intimate dinners, we craft custom menus that reflect diverse cuisines from around the world, all while prioritizing inclusivity and community.

Detailed Description
Stillwater Catering is Tucson’s go-to boutique catering company, specializing in customized, full-service catering for all types of events. Founded by Chef Roxanne in 2015, Stillwater Catering provides a unique, personalized experience for every client. Whether you’re hosting a wedding, a corporate event, or an intimate dinner party, Chef Roxanne’s extensive experience in Napa and Sonoma’s culinary scene ensures that every dish is both exquisite and tailored to your tastes.

We offer a wide range of culinary styles, including American, Mediterranean, Italian, French, Indian, Thai, and Latin cuisines. Choose from plated dinners, buffet-style service, or even our exclusive “Party on Your Plate™” experience—a high-energy hors d’oeuvres event that’s perfect for lively gatherings. Our team serves homes, event centers, and remote locations across Tucson, ensuring that every meal is presented with the highest level of care and creativity.

Stillwater Catering prides itself on not just preparing meals, but creating memorable culinary experiences that celebrate togetherness. As advocates of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, we welcome everyone with open arms, ensuring your event feels as inclusive as it is delicious.

Looking to create a one-of-a-kind dining experience for your next event? Let Stillwater Catering turn your vision into reality with customized menus, exceptional service, and a commitment to bringing people together.

Hours of Operation
By appointment only

Customer Reviews
I hired Roxanne for a post funeral luncheon & she did not disappoint. She is very professional, has years of experience, asked me to tell her about the person who passed away, listened with true interest, & helped me choose a menu the dearly departed would smile upon with 100% approval. The menu was unique, presented beautifully, & tasted fabulous. Friends & family were thrilled & informed me it was exactly what our loved one would have wanted. Thank you, Roxanne, for a truly beautiful, delicious, & memorable experience. I would highly recommend her for your catering needs.

Annette J.
Tucson, AZ

Experience Customized Catering
Ready to elevate your next event? Contact Stillwater Catering today to schedule a consultation and begin planning your personalized menu. Whether you’re looking to host an elegant wedding or a casual family-style dinner, we provide the creativity and attention to detail that your event deserves.

Social Media
Follow us on Instagram @StillwaterCatering for updates on seasonal menus, event inspiration, and more.

Photo Gallery

Abbey Funeral Chapel

Abbey Funeral Chapel - Logo
Abbey Funeral Chapel – Logo
Abbey Funeral Chapel is a gay-friendly and supportive firm that services all families in their moments of need.  They provide an incredibly important service because not all funeral homes and chapels are welcoming to everyone in our community.  During some of the most trying times of your life, choose someone you trust to help you say goodbye to your loved ones.

Meet Gary Carolan, Abbey Funeral Chapel Director

Abbey Funeral Chapel Location
Abbey Funeral Chapel Location
Gary has been fighting for equality for a long time.  In fact, he became interested in funeral homes to provide for families who had lost someone to AIDS.  It was a growing custom during the 80’s to not service HIV+ individuals or people with AIDS.  This perverse policy negatively affected the families who had already lost someone they loved deeply, only to be insulted when trying to find a place for their loved one to rest.

Why This is Important to Me

I was crushed to hear recently the story of a close friend who had difficulty finding a funeral home because the deceased was transgender.  The lack of caring and decency was appalling, but for this to occur in 2018, after all the progress we have made as a community, put me over-the-top. What will it take for people to realize we are all the same?  We are all sisters.  Brothers.  Lovers.  Humans, who dream, and yearn, and cry all the same.  The ties that unite us outnumber the differences that so bitterly divide us. It is important to support amazing businesses like Abbey Funeral Chapel who treat everyone with the same level of empathy and comfort.  It is important to support good people doing good things to help others.  And, above all else, it is important to love each other fully and completely. 3435 N 1st Ave Tucson, AZ 85719 (520) 888-1111 Abbey Funeral Chapel Have a great day! TonyRay 🙂