Ruth Ellis Center

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Named in honor of a resilient Detroit icon, Ruth Ellis Center works to create a supportive environment and community for LGBTQ+ young people.

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We are dedicated to embedding Racial Equity and Transformative Justice in all of our work.

Racial Equity Statement

Working to create a supportive environment and community for LGBTQ+ young people.

Our mission is to create opportunities with LGBTQ+ young people to build their vision for a positive future.

Our vision is a world where LGBTQ+ young people are safe and supported no matter where they go.

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VOICES 2026 Invite

Upcoming Event

Join us on Friday, September 25 for VOICES 2026!

Tickets are now live for our Annual Gala VOICES on Friday, September 25.

Ruth Ellis opened her home as a safe haven long before it was safe to do so. No judgment. No conditions. Just an open door with the promise that whoever walked through it belonged.

Sanctuary was never a building – it was simply a person who made room. Every voice deserves the pulpit, and every story deserves to be told.

This year, VOICES calls our community together under that same promise. For one night at The Shepherd, LGBTQ+ artists, musicians, and stories will bring together our community to celebrate, remember, and look to the future.

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Young People

Ruth Ellis Center welcomes young people and supports your housing, health and wellness needs. Click to learn more.

Services

Supporters

Ruth Ellis’ legacy is not ours alone. The Center is a community-driven effort. Learn how you can support.

Our Approach

Boom! It was a whole community. It was like multiple people came together to create Ruth Ellis Center.

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