Celebrate community spirit: neighbours, volunteers and service providers turned out for the New Castle Prism Initiative’s one-year block party at Third Independent Presbyterian Church, a sunny, family-friendly afternoon that showcased local vendors, live music, free HIV/STI testing and year-round LGBTQ+ services that matter in Lawrence County.

Essential Takeaways

  • One-year milestone: The Prism Initiative marked 12 months of active LGBTQ+ outreach with a public block party and vendor fair.
  • Practical services on site: Free HIV/STI testing was provided during the event, alongside resource tables and signposting to local health partners.
  • Ongoing support: The initiative runs a food pantry and the Pauly Likens Memorial Sanctuary community closet offering gender-affirming clothing and hygiene items.
  • Community atmosphere: Food trucks, games and music made the celebration inviting for families and allies, creating a warm, low-pressure way to connect.
  • Local collaboration: The event highlighted partnerships with regional health and social-service organisations that extend care across surrounding counties.

A block party that felt like a neighbourhood hug

A single sunny afternoon turned a church car park into a lively community hub, with the hum of conversation, the smell of food-truck fare and music setting a relaxed, celebratory tone. The Prism Initiative used the party to thank volunteers and introduce their work to curious neighbours, and the result felt convivial rather than clinical. Events like this show how outreach can be both practical and joyful.

Why free on-site testing matters

Central Outreach provided free HIV and STI testing during the fair, removing a barrier for people who might otherwise delay screening. According to local health partners, making testing visible and accessible at community events increases uptake and normalises sexual health care. If you’re thinking of attending a similar event, bring ID, ask about confidentiality and consider speaking with onsite staff about follow-up care.

Services that go beyond the party

Prism’s in-house food pantry and the Pauly Likens Memorial Sanctuary community closet are the day-to-day work behind the celebration. These programmes supply food, gender-affirming clothing and hygiene items to people who often face gaps in mainstream services. For many attendees, the block party was a practical way to learn about support options that are open year-round, not just on celebratory days.

Partnerships that stretch across counties

The fair made clear this isn’t a solo project. Local and regional organisations help plug Prism into a broader safety net , from testing providers to health centres and social services. That collaborative approach means someone can be referred to specialised care quickly. For families and individuals new to the area, these networks are a useful map of where to go when needs arise.

How to take part next time

If you missed the block party but want to get involved, volunteer, or access services, reach out through Prism’s local channels and watch for seasonal events. Bring an open mind, a willingness to help, and, if you can, a donation of clothing or non-perishable food for their programmes. Small gestures stack up to real support.

It's a small change that can make every outreach moment more welcoming and effective.

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