oUR sTORY

Integrated Praise Community (IPCF)

Our organization was founded in 2018 to uplift and empower BIPOC LGBTQIA communities with a special focus on TGI people and their families. Established by a transgender couple of color, IPCF received 501(c)(3) nonprofit status with a mission to provide holistic support and resources beyond traditional religious spaces.

Our journey began with the creation of Integrated Praise Spiritual Center (IPSC) in 2014, born from the need for an inclusive spiritual space that brings together both LGBTQIA+ individuals and the broader community. IPSC blends indigenous wisdom with modern spiritual practices, offering a unique environment where LGBTQIA+ people—especially TGI individuals—are not only welcomed but empowered to lead. Led by an African American transgender pastor, IPSC is a vibrant, inter-spiritual sanctuary where people of all backgrounds can find acceptance, healing, and the freedom to express their spirituality without fear of rejection.

IPCF was born out of the shared stories of LGBTQIA+ members and focus groups, which revealed the significant psychosocial challenges faced by BIPOC TGI communities, particularly those affected by trauma and systemic inequality. In response, IPCF was created to provide crucial holistic services, allowing IPSC to focus on its spiritual mission.

Our programs—We the People, Ubuntu Project, Seeding the Soul, and CisTranet—address a wide range of needs, from identity affirmation and trauma recovery to mental health support, advocacy, culturally competent sensitivity and awareness training, community connection, and spiritual growth. These initiatives offer BIPOC LGBTQIA+ communities, especially TGI individuals, a safe space to explore their identities, heal, and build supportive networks.

Mission Statement

At Integrated Praise Community Foundation, we are dedicated to building healthy and sustainable BIPOC LGBTQIA+ communities, with special focus on the TGI community. We embrace diversity, ignite equity, and empower individuals and their families to thrive in inclusive environments.

Our mission is to provide essential holistic resources, culturally competent training, and unwavering support, fostering education, empowerment, and equity. Through advocacy and bridge-building, we strive to heal wounds, bridge divides, and cultivate a culture of love and dignity. Together, we forge pathways to lasting social equity and justice, ensuring every voice is heard, every person is valued, and every community shines brightly.

Vision Statement

We envision a future where BIPOC LGBTQIA+ communities, particularly the TGI community, flourish in environments of inclusivity and equity. Our vision is a society where every individual is valued, empowered, and supported to achieve their full potential, and where social justice and equality are realized for all.

Values and Guiding Principles

Our core values and guiding principles inform every aspect of our work, ensuring we foster a community center on safety, respect, and empowerment. We prioritize community well-being by working to prevent harm and discrimination, and fostering an inclusive environment for BIPOC LGBTQIA+ individuals, especially TGI communities. Our commitment to integrity and transparency builds trust, while collaboration with local organizations amplifies our impact. Through continuous improvement, we adapt to meet the evolving needs of our community, driving meaningful change.

  • Safety and Well-Being : We prioritize the safety and well-being of our community. Our comprehensive measures prevent harm and discrimination, fostering a secure environment for all. By centering the voices of BIPOC LGBTQ+ people, we address their unique challenges and enhance community well-being.
  • Respect and Dignity: We honor the inherent worth of every individual by prioritizing respect and dignity in all interactions. Our focus on empowerment and diversity fosters an environment where everyone feels valued and safe, enabling individuals to lead fulfilling lives.
  • Inclusivity and Cultural Sensitivity: At IPCF, we celebrate the diversity of our BIPOC LGBTQIA+ communities, with a focus on TGI individuals. We create culturally sensitive programs that honor and uplift all identities, ensuring everyone feels welcomed, valued, and supported.
  • Empowerment: We empower individuals by providing the tools and resources for holistic healing and personal growth. Through advocacy and community engagement, we enable BIPOC LGBTQIA+ individuals to become change-makers in their lives and communities.
  • Integrity and Accountability: We uphold the highest standards of integrity and take responsibility for our actions. Transparency and accountability are central to our practices, fostering trust within the community and ensuring our commitment to safeguarding and ethical conduct.
  • Community Collaboration: We leverage collaboration as a catalyst for meaningful change. By partnering with local organizations and allies, we amplify our impact and drive transformation for our participants and the broader community.
  • Continuous Improvement:

    We are committed to ongoing learning and refinement, continually enhancing our practices to meet evolving needs. By fostering curiosity and creativity, we develop innovative solutions to the complex challenges in our community, ensuring our programs remain effective and of the highest standards.