Queer Center is an umbrella organization with programs and resources, serving the Queer Community. Our model endeavors to reflect the fluid world in which we live; our lives are mobile and our community center should be as well. We are a center that sees each other with empathy and works toward equality.
We will connect the LGBTQ+ community that spans the greater Phoenix metropolitan area to resources, opportunities, and each other. In the communities that we serve, we will use technology and a mix of site-specific entertainment, artistic, and educational events to gather resources, generate opportunities, and foster connections with one another.
President
Jesse Baltazar came to Phoenix over 6 years ago to Manage Flexspas. He was also the Special Events Director for Flex for over 5 years. He assisted in producing Cleveland’s Pride Events for 2 years. Previously, Jesse was founder and President of “With Pride”, a gay organization raising funds for other nonprofits in the Los Angeles area. He has raised over 2.6 million dollars for various charities.
Jesse saw a need to create a Center for all of our Community. “Being the 4th largest city in the nation and not having a Center is unacceptable”.
COO
Travis Cooper, also known within the community as Sonja Jae Savage, is a mission-driven leader with over 13 years of dedicated service centered on advocacy, visibility, and collective well-being. Their work spans fundraising for community organizations, producing purpose-driven events across diverse spaces, and representing their community on national stages through pageantry—leveraging platform and presence to advance equity and empowerment.
With a focus on sustainable impact and organizational growth, Travis serves in a Chief Operating Officer (COO) role, where they help guide operations, strengthen infrastructure, and support the long-term vision of The Queer Center. Their leadership is rooted in collaboration, accountability, and people-first systems designed to meet the evolving needs of the community.
Board Member
Rochell Hughes is a 49-year-old Afro-Latina leader, community advocate, and behavioral health professional. She is the CEO and Founder of The THRIVE Collective: Food Bank and Wellness Hub, Community Impact Director for the Queer Center, and serves as Vice President and Board Member of The Imperial Court of Arizona. With state certifications in C-PRS, C-MIT, C-SCT, and C-CFBS, Rochell brings specialized expertise in behavioral health to her advocacy and organizational leadership. A dedicated advocate against sex trafficking, she is committed to advancing equity, wellness, and resilience in marginalized communities through sustainable programs and compassionate leadership.
Board Member
Board Member