meet our team

Staff

pEREGRIN sANCHEZ

Site Director
**Pronouns:** he/him
**What are you bringing to the Safe Space?**
A recent transplant from San Francisco, I have over a decades' worth of experience in culinary arts and hospitality, and have long been involved in the LGBTQ+ scene from a hospitality perspective. As a culinarian, I believe that food is a powerful tool to connect with people across all walks of life, and I strive to create an environment where people of all backgrounds can feel welcome sharing a table together--no matter their backgrounds, lifestyles, or dietary needs. As a writer, I use the intersectionality of both my Hispanic heritage and my queer identity to be a visible example for other marginalized voices; I work to help others uplift their own voices with the power of the written word through discussions on literary craft and storytelling.
**What are you looking to take away from this work?**
My partner was born and raised in rural Appalachia, and has shared with me the love for the Shenandoah Valley over the years. I hope to learn more about the community and region that was such a big part of his life growing up, and to help create a space where the next generation can be their true selves without fear of violence or retribution. I also hope to learn more about the area's history and culture, and through the Safe Space, become part of that history in my own small way.

Meshawn Macklin

Racial Equity Coordinator
**Pronouns:** they/them
**What are you bringing to the Safe Space?**
I am bringing my inquisitive nature to this role in order to bring more communities of color and other marginalized groups to the space. Working to create equitable spaces for everyone has been a motivating force in my life. I want to bring a sense of liberation and belonging to ensure everyone can call the Safe Space “home”.
**What are you looking to take away from this work?**
I am looking to do the work with like minded people! I also hope to learn more about queer communities and experiences in the Harrisonburg area. I am also looking to establish and maintain working relationships with people in the community.

bETHANY cHUPP

sAFE sPACE COUNSELOR

Pronouns: she/her

What are you bringing to the Safe Space?

I am bringing a commitment to, and belief in, queer affirming and celebratory mental health support. It is my honor to walk alongside LGBTQ+ individuals through journeys of self-discovery, relationship building, and improved wellbeing. I am excited to support FCSS in expanding mental health services for our community, and bring curiosity and creativity for the various forms these services can take.

What are you looking to take away from this work?

I am hoping to gain from this work a deeper sense of joy and hope for what the future holds for LGBTQ+ folks in Harrisonburg and beyond. In settling in Harrisonburg after growing up in Oregon, it has been a delight to invest in this community I now call home and see it become a safer space for queer existence. FCSS is an exciting and invigorating place to be, and I am thrilled to be serving our community through this organization.