In the heart of Galveston, a new and exciting space for the LGBTQ community has taken shape—Pride Center Galveston. What began as a personal dream for Navy veteran and former teacher Brandt Matthew Molitor, has now turned into a vibrant hub for connection, support, and belonging.
In this article, we’ll explore how Molitor transformed an old pharmacy building into a thriving community center, and how his journey of service and activism has shaped the center’s mission.
Pride Center Galveston: A Vision Realized
When Brandt Molitor first set foot in the old pharmacy building on 39th Street, he didn’t just see an abandoned space—he saw potential. With his deep roots in service and advocacy for the LGBTQ community, particularly for LGBTQ asylum seekers, Molitor envisioned a place where people could come together, find acceptance, and create a sense of belonging.
“I chose to continue on with it, thinking that he might rejoin the marriage,” Molitor reflects, referring to his former partner. “He has not. So, this project has had to reflect more me than what we were as a couple.”
Molitor’s decision to continue the project alone marked a turning point in his life, but it was also a chance to leave a legacy that he could be proud of.
The building, originally purchased with his partner, was now being transformed into a community hub with a focus on unity, support, and friendship for the LGBTQ community on the island.
A Space with a Legacy of Service
The building itself has a long history of serving the local community. From Alcoholics Anonymous meetings to after-school programs, it had always been a space for gathering and support. Molitor saw this as an opportunity to build on that legacy, creating a new chapter in the building’s history.
“It already kind of had a legacy of service to the neighborhood,” he says. “So when I came in here, it was a matter of figuring out what we were going to do in this space.”
Molitor’s passion for community-driven change grew from his past work with asylum seekers in Massachusetts, where he helped house LGBTQ refugees. His desire to create a space where shared experiences could lead to mutual support drove him to create the Pride Center Galveston.
Building Connections Through Shared Experiences
Opening in September 2024, Pride Center Galveston quickly became more than just a place—it became a network for people to connect, share experiences, and build friendships. One of the first groups to meet at the center was the Galveston Gay Chorus, which started before the center even officially opened.
“Starting our first group back in June of last year… it doesn’t matter how rough a week you’ve had, when you come into that chorus group, it’s a reset,” Molitor shares.
Today, the center offers a variety of spaces and services. From a cozy coffeehouse-style lounge to a speakeasy-style area with both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options, the center ensures there is something for everyone, mindful of the needs of those in recovery.
Upstairs, rooms are being transformed into affordable long-term rentals for individuals in need, including veterans and people referred by local housing agencies.
“It’s co-housing,” Molitor explains. “There’s safety in numbers. Our community has some needs.”
Creating a Safe Haven for All
At its core, Pride Center Galveston is about fostering connection. Molitor emphasizes the importance of building social friendships because, as he believes, nothing can be accomplished alone. “You have to have friends that help you,” he says.
The center’s mission is clear: creating a safe, welcoming space where people from all walks of life can come together. Molitor wants the community to feel empowered to make the center their own.
“I don’t want to lead every event, I want others to make it their own,” he says, inviting others to host events that reflect the diverse needs and experiences of the community.
The Future of Pride Center Galveston
As the Pride Center approaches its first anniversary, Molitor is hopeful for the future. The space has already made a significant impact on the community, and there’s much more to come.
Molitor’s personal journey has shaped the space and its programming, but he is excited for others to take ownership of the space and make it their own.
“I want people to come here and make a new friend,” Molitor says. “That’s really it. That’s the heart of it.”
Pride Center Galveston is more than just a building—it’s a growing community, and with Molitor’s passion and dedication, it promises to continue making a meaningful difference in the lives of those who need it most.
Pride Center Galveston stands as a beacon of hope and connection for the LGBTQ community. Brandt Molitor’s personal dedication, combined with the building’s long history of service, has created a space that is both a sanctuary and a thriving hub for friendship, support, and shared experiences.
As the center celebrates its first year, the future is bright, with the promise of even more growth, connection, and community support.
