Our History
#LoveWinsAtVisuality
Visuality Inc. was born out of love, necessity, and a shared vision for a more inclusive Southwest Florida.
In 2010, Arlene Goldberg revived the local chapter of PFLAG in Lee County, recognizing the need for a safe and supportive space for LGBTQ+ individuals, their families, and allies. Around that same time, Carrie Koehane began attending PFLAG meetings in search of support for her transgender daughter — and for herself. As the two connected, it became clear that a vital piece was missing from the community: there were no services or dedicated spaces for LGBTQ+ youth in the area.
Motivated to make a change, Arlene and Carrie approached the UnitarianUniversalist Church of Fort Myers (UUCFM) and asked to host an LGBTQ+ youth social event. The church welcomed the idea and generously offered space at no cost. That first event was a success — a sign that the LGBTQ+ youth in our community needed a place to gather, connect, and feel safe.
It was time to give this vision a name. At a PFLAG meeting, another mom and her son simply suggested it should be called "Visuality" and we decided Visuality it was…It just worked.
From these early gatherings, the idea for a full-fledged LGBTQ+ community center began to take shape. Carrie and Arlene moved quickly to establish Visuality as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, formed a board of directors, and began creating programs tailored to LGBTQ+ youth.
Initially, events continued at UUCFM, but limitations in space and storage led to the search for a dedicated home for the organization. This marked the beginning of Visuality’s physical community center — a space built to grow alongside the needs of those it serves.
As Visuality evolved, so did its mission. What began as a youth-focused initiative expanded to offer support, resources, and programming for LGBTQ+ individuals of all ages across Southwest Florida.
Today, Visuality stands as a beacon for equality, connection, and community empowerment — a place where LGBTQ+ individuals and their families can find belonging, support, and pride.
The mission of Visuality is to promote the health, safety, personal growth and overall wellness of the gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and queer plus community of SWFL and for our allies. Visuality strives to end all forms of violence, harassment, discrimination, and prejudice based on real, or perceived, sexual orientation or gender identity in our community by providing for, and aiding in the development of safe and welcoming environments for all.