A new nonprofit organization has recently been established to support career development for members of the LGBTQ+ community. The organization, OPEN Foundation, provides resources, tools, and community support to LGBTQ+ individuals as they pursue their professional and career goals.

OPEN Foundation was founded by Heidi Duss, and enthusiastically advocated for, and supported by OPEN Board members and the OPEN Member community. A strong advocate for LGBTQ+ rights in the workplace, Heidi is passionate about creating a more equitable and inclusive world and believes that OPEN Foundation can help make this a reality by providing support and guidance to those who may otherwise be held back in their career due to their gender identity or sexual orientation.

OPEN Foundation will offer a range of services to its members, including:

• An online professional resource hub,
• Comprehensive career mentoring and coaching,
• Informative group workshops and seminars for early career workers and people transitioning in their careers, and
• Access to exclusive job and internship offers.

“Dane County is ready for OPEN Foundation. After listening to our members, we know there is a need to provide LGBTQ+-specific resources and support to help our community reach their professional goals, whatever their career path is,” says Duss. “We are committed to making sure that no one is held back due to their gender identity or sexual orientation and that everyone has the opportunity to pursue their dreams and reach their goals in life.”

OPEN Foundation is now seeking partnerships and funding. Those who are interested in supporting the organization can visit openmadison.org/openfoundation for more information. Here, you can also learn more about the organization’s services and resources and find out how to join OPEN, our membership and networking organization.

We hope that you will consider supporting this exciting new organization and joining us in our mission to create a more equitable and inclusive world for all.