History

Transgender Health Empowerment, Inc. (T.H.E.) was originally founded in 1996 by transgenders for transgenders. Initially, T.H.E. operated as an African American focused, non-profit, community-based organization to address the housing, employment, heath care, and disease prevention needs of transgender clients.  In 2003, T.H.E. received its IRS designation as a 501-c-3 organization, primarily for the purpose of serving these same  populations.

However, based on the results of numerous community needs assessments, it became clear there was a need to be more inclusive in serving diverse populations. Thus, as part of an ongoing strategic planning process, T.H.E. broadened its mission to enhance the quality of life of the diverse transgender populations we serve by advocating for and supporting a continuum of health and social services.  In fulfilling our mission, we seek to unify and empower the transgender, lesbian, gay, and bisexual communities.   

Based on more than a decade of experience, T.H.E. is uniquely positioned to positively reach and serve diverse TGLB populations. Since its inception, the agency has grown from a handful of volunteers to an organization of highly dedicated, culturally competent staff with a wealth of experience in serving the needs of our clients.  Our successful track record in providing supportive housing, health promotion, disease prevention, and related programs not only continues to positively impact the lives of the populations we serve, but also contributes to a steadily increasing number of partner agencies that are sensitive to the needs of transgender, gay, lesbian, and bisexual individuals.