FRAMINGHAM - OUT MetroWest will hold their second edition of the OUT On the Block event on Sunday, June 23, from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Amazing Things Art Center (ātac) along Hollis Street in downtown Framingham.

After canceling the event last year, OUT MetroWest will be bringing the block party back–along with features from a wide variety of community organizations this June, which is also Pride Month.

“At OUT MetroWest, we are really committed to creating communities where LGBTQ youth thrive,” Executive Director for the organization Mel Pace said in an interview with The Frame, “and Pride is one of the many ways we’re able to do that.”

“OUT On the Block is our opportunity to host folks here and celebrate with a block party for the community.”

The event is free to attend. It will feature activities including tie-dying and lawn games. There will also be a musical performance by the Philadelphia-based group Ants on a Log.  Food and drinks from Doragon Eatery and Kona Ice will be available for purchase as well.

OUT MetroWest provides more than just celebrations such as these. The organization offers resources like free education and a variety of support programs for LGBTQ+ youth in the MetroWest region.

Pace explained that these programs are led by adult mentors in order to help LGBTQ+ youth connect in a safe environment. The group’s office space inside of ātac has a curated library of queer literature, queer-related activities, games, and more.

“It’s really wonderful to have a space that is specifically dedicated for LGBTQ+ youth,” Pace continued.

“This is a place that [sic] young trans and queer people can come and be safe and supported…Something we’re really glad to be able to provide is free programming, and one of the ways we’re able to do that is community support and community fundraising.”

Pace added that OUT MetroWest is always looking for extra help. They accept donations and sponsorships, while they are also open to volunteer help and ambassadorships for their programs.

For more information, visit their website by clicking here.