On Sunday, June 12, an armed individual walked into Pulse Nightclub in Orlando, Florida, and opened fire. When the attack was over, 49 people had lost their lives with another 53 injured. There are many things that make this tragedy terrible: the loss of life; the fact the nightclub was meant to be a safe place for the LGBT+ community; and the clear preparation the shooter took prior to walking into the club that night. Many questions remain unanswered about the deadliest mass shooting in U.S. history.

As the days pass, we’ll see many conversations surrounding this, but today, I encourage you to take a moment of silence for the 49 young people who never went home that night.

Ryan Howerter has built a ribbon of mourning. It is simple and profound. It is a memorial to the lives lost.

For those that wish to help the injured and families of the victims, please see the resources below:

Blood Donations
While immediate need has been met, there is still a need for blood donations for the upcoming weeks. Check OneBlood or call 1.888.9Donate for more information on what their needs are.

Monetary Donations
Equity Florida has established a GoFundMe page, as well as the GLBT Community Center of Florida (GoFundMe). Funds will go to the families of victims. Additionally, Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer has created the OneOrlando fund, with funds also helping victims and providing ongoing support. Before donating, check with your employer to see if they have a funds matching program available.

Local Needs:

Volunteers
Please click here to check with the City of Orlando to see what assistance they may need.

Mental Health Volunteers
There is a need for mental health professionals; The Center is accepting information from licensed clinicians here.

Translators
Many of the victims were people of color. Their families coming in are in need of translators. If you can provide translating services, you are encouraged to reach out to info at hispanic chamber dot net.