Who We Are

At The Center, we take pride in a workforce that represents a wide spectrum of identities, each bringing unique perspectives from various walks of life. This rich mosaic of experiences and backgrounds is what makes us uniquely positioned to serve the 2SLGBTQIA+ community in Kern County with empathy, understanding, and dedication.

Our team's diversity is our strength, enabling us to connect with and support the community in meaningful ways. It allows us to approach the needs of the 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals we serve with a depth of understanding and a breadth of compassion that is unmatched. Each member of our team brings their own story, their own struggles, and their own triumphs, contributing to a collective passion for social justice that drives everything we do.

From direct services to advocacy and education to community building, our commitment to health equity is the thread that weaves through all our work. We are driven by a shared goal: to create a Kern County where every 2SLGBTQIA+ individual has the opportunity to live openly, authentically, and safely, embraced by a community that values them for who they are.

As you get to know our team, you'll discover the faces and stories behind the work we do—each one of us is motivated by the belief that together, we can make a difference. It’s this collective passion and dedication to serving our community that fuels our efforts every day.

Our Leadership Team

Our leadership team combines passionate advocates and seasoned professionals, all dedicated to enhancing the 2SLGBTQIA+ community's well-being in Kern County through community engagement, partnerships, and compassionate care

“Rights are won only by those who make their voices heard.” - Harvey Milk

Jesus Martell Gonzalez, MBA, PMP

Executive Director
he/him/el

Dani Muñoz ​

Director of Programs, Services & Grants
they/them/theirs
​

Christine Paulsen

LCSW, Director of Mental Health Services 
she/her/hers

Our Programming Team

Our dynamic team is skilled in crafting supportive and educational experiences for all ages within the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, seamlessly integrating programs for young individuals, parents, and those over 50 with a commitment to fostering empowerment, understanding, and inclusivity

Fry Friend

Program Specialist, Youth & Young Adults Programs
(they/them/theirs or he/him/his)

Iz McCann

Program Specialist, Adult Programs
​(they/them/theirs or he/him/his)​

Our Community Health Services Team

Our Community Health Services Team specializes in connecting individuals to culturally competent, affirming providers within the community, ensuring the 2SLGBTQIA+ community receives holistic health and wellness services tailored to their needs

​“You’ve always had the power my dear. You just had to learn it for yourself.” - Glenda The Good Witch

​Artemis Zene

Community Health Worker
(they/he/she)

"The most important thing, darling, is to live a fabulous life. As long as it's fabulous, I don't care how long it is." - Freddie Mercury

Kia Wilkins

Community Health Worker
(she/her/hers)