Building a Vibrant LGBTQ+ Community in Holland

When we think of someone who is a powerhouse making a real difference in their community, Jennifer Evans comes to mind right away. As the newest Executive Director of Out On The Lakeshore (OOTL), she's on a mission to build an inclusive, visible, and vibrant future for the LGBTQ+ community (with a passion for young people).

From Veterinary Clinics to Visibility

Back in Texas, Jennifer worked for years in nonprofit work animal medicine, but her path began to shift when she moved into a corporate role at Zoetis. During her time there, she led a global LGBTQ+ group. “That’s where my two worlds collided: nonprofit heart and community-focused advocacy,” she shared. In true love story fashion, Jennifer packed up her belongings and moved to Michigan in the fall of 2024 to be with her partner, Penelope.

Now at the helm of OOTL, Jennifer’s using her past experience to deepen the organization’s impact and create meaningful space for community, conversation, and celebration.

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A Community Center for the Next Generation

For Jennifer, this work is deeply personal. Her partner, Penelope, grew up in Holland, and together they’re raising young children (7, 11, and 20) in this community. “It’s all about future generations. It has to be. They’re the ones who are going to be here when we’re too old and beat up to do anything,” she said with a laugh.

That’s why one of her core focuses right now is building out youth programming (something new for the organization). 

Jennifer dreams of growing the OOTL Community Center into a welcoming space where youth and young adults can drop in after school, access support groups, and feel a sense of belonging. “We’ve been in this space for six years—it's time to dream a little bigger.”

When asked what she wishes more people understood about Holland’s LGBTQ+ community, Jennifer was candid: “There are more of us than people think. And there’s a lot of pain and fear for many of us. Visibility matters, but so does empathy.”

Holland Pride: Celebrating, Healing, and Preparing

At the time of publishing, Pride Month has just begun, and Holland Pride 2025 is just around the corner. Jennifer is excited about what this year represents. “Pride has become so rainbow-washed with a lot of people and organizations trying to make money off it or turn it into a marketing stunt,” she said. “For us, it’s about healing, celebrating, and preparing for what’s next.” Expect fewer gimmicks and more intentional, inclusive moments: immersive art for families, spaces for reflection, and a celebration rooted in connection and community. Check out their full calendar of events and programming at outonthelakeshore.org

Ways to Support Out On The Lakeshore

If you’re looking to get involved, Jennifer’s advice is simple: start by showing up. Out on the Lakeshore’s open hours are available to simply have a conversation or learn about volunteer opportunities. As she so beautifully stated, “Pride isn’t just about showing up in June.” OOTL also just launched their new support model, League of Allies where folks can support OOTL’s efforts for as low as $5 a month. Jennifer wanted to make sure we give a special shoutout to our owner, Alex Tillard, for being the very first League member.

Outside the Office

When she’s not working, Jennifer’s soaking up life’s simple joys:

🪴 Tending to plants
🛋️ Redoing interior spaces with thrifty DIY finds
🐈 Hanging out with her cat—the undisputed king of Kitty Town
🪑 Thrifting and antiquing (pro tip: Wisconsin is a goldmine)
🍲 Enjoying home-cooked meals from Penelope, who shows love through food—think sourdough and quinoa salad perfection

We’re so inspired by Jennifer’s passion, her leadership, and the thoughtful way she’s creating real space for inclusion in our corner of the world.

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