Young Adult Drop In at Center on Cottage Grove

Community Focused

The Midwest's largest LGBTQ+ community center is hosting its inaugural holiday market — 40+ queer and ally-owned small businesses selling one-of-a-kind gifts, festive goods, and treats with serious flair. It's free to attend with a suggested $5 donation, and every purchase supports both local makers and the Center's life-changing health and wellness programs for over 19,000 community members annually. Shop, connect, and celebrate with your people this holiday season.

Trans

A free, judgment-free weekly drop-in for trans and non-binary folks at Center on Halsted. No appointment needed — just show up and connect with real, practical support including housing navigation, employment services, legal help with name changes and discrimination cases, medical referrals, and more. As the Midwest's first comprehensive one-stop resource designed specifically for the trans community, TransSafe connects you with people and resources that actually understand what you're navigating.

Community Center

Lunch and real conversation for LGBTQ+ adults 60+, held Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at Center on Halsted as part of the City of Chicago's Golden Diner's Program. It's more than a meal — it's a chance to connect with fellow senior community members over good food and genuine friendship, no pressure and no judgment. A small donation is optional and never required.

Community Focused

A judgment-free space for young adults (18-24) at Center on Halsted to relax, connect, and get real support. Drop in for free hot meals, hygiene items, clean clothes, bus cards, laundry, HIV testing, computer access, and case management — no appointment or signup needed. Just show up and take care of yourself among community that gets it.

Community Center

A weekly social space for queer and trans young adults (18-24) to connect with people who get it. Lavender Living brings together community through guided discussions, shared experiences, and regular meetups—no pressure, just genuine conversation and the chance to find your people. Free, every Wednesday at Center on Halsted.

Community Focused

A weekly community group where gender-variant folks gather to explore identity, build visibility, and connect with others thinking about gender in new ways. Free, no sign-up needed, masks provided. Join us Wednesday nights from 7-9pm at Center on Halsted to find your people and show up as you are.