ABOUT IMPAQT
Learn more about IMPAQT GSO, our mission, the leaders behind the movement, and the rich history that grounds our work in advocacy, equity, and LGBTQIA+ empowerment across the Triad and beyond.vibrant future for LGBTQIA+ individuals across the Triad, one voice, one action, one celebration at a time.
Our Mission
At IMPAQT GSO, we’re committed to improving the emotional and social well-being of LGBTQIA+ individuals by creating inclusive spaces, offering resources, and hosting events that build a strong, supportive community in Greensboro.
Our Vision
At IMPAQT GSO, we’re dedicated to improving the emotional and social well-being of LGBTQIA individuals by creating inclusive spaces, offering resources, and hosting events that build a strong, supportive community in Greensboro. We envision a city where LGBTQIA people can thrive, feel celebrated, and truly belong. Events like Greensboro Pride are more than just gatherings; they’re spaces where people connect, feel seen, and strengthen our community. Our vision is simple: a Greensboro that embraces diversity, builds meaningful connections, and empowers everyone to show up as their most authentic selves.
Our Leadership Team
Executive Team
Board Members
Greensboro Royalty
Pride Committee Members
The History of IMPAQT GSO
1988: Establishment of A.R.T.
IMPAQT GSO traces its roots to Alternative Resources of the Triad (A.R.T.), founded in 1988 by Katheryn Smith, the former Executive Director of Triad Health Project. With guidance from John Quillan of the Charlotte Gay and Lesbian Switchboard and Greensboro attorney Ron Johnson, A.R.T. secured its nonprofit status. An anonymous $1,000 donation sparked the organization’s first event, the Lesbian Health Fair, and shortly after, the Gay & Lesbian Hotline of the Triad was launched to provide vital community resources. Brian Riggs, a graduate student in UNC Greensboro’s counseling program, secured funding for the Gay & Lesbian Hotline of the Triad by writing a grant with backing from Charlie Hawes, an Episcopal priest at St. Mary’s House near the UNCG campus. The Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina approved a modest grant in response to the proposal, making it possible to launch a support resource that was the first of its kind in the Greensboro area.
2003: Transition to Online Resources
As the internet became a powerful tool, A.R.T. transitioned from the hotline to an online presence. In November 2003, OutGreensboro.com (later renamed OutTriad.org) became a 24/7 platform to address community needs.
2005: Expanding Support
A.R.T. launched the Queer College Youth Network (QCY NT), bringing together LGBTQIA+ student leaders from universities like UNCG, Guilford College, Wake Forest University, and Elon University.
On the entertainment front, A.R.T. introduced the Greensboro Out at the Movies! series, offering a space for the LGBTQIA+ community to connect through film. Events regularly sold out, reflecting the growing support for LGBTQIA+ visibility and culture.
2006: First Greensboro Pride Festival
A.R.T. hosted the first Triad Pride Festival at Festival Park (now LeBauer Park) in downtown Greensboro. That same year, Greensboro also hosted NC Pride, including the statewide NC Pride Parade, which rotated cities annually. The inaugural local festival welcomed 400 guests and six vendors, marking the beginning of a transformative tradition that would eventually grow into one of North Carolina’s largest LGBTQIA+ events.
2015: Expanding Pride
By 2015, Greensboro Pride moved to South Elm Street to accommodate the growing festival. With an estimated 10,000 attendees, this shift highlighted the increasing impact of Pride in Greensboro’s community.
2022: Pride Returns
After two years of cancellations due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Greensboro Pride returned in 2022. Attendance soared to nearly 40,000 guests, with over 160 booths, including sponsors, vendors, and food trucks.
2025: Rebranding to IMPAQT GSO
In 2025, A.R.T. proudly rebranded as IMPAQT GSO, embracing a mission centered on lasting impact, inclusion, and community strength. The Greensboro Pride Festival returned to LeBauer Park, expanding vendor space, programming, and special events — and drawing record-breaking attendance of more than 80,000 visitors. With overwhelmingly positive feedback from attendees, vendors, and partners alike, 2025 marked one of our most successful years yet, setting the stage for an even brighter and more impactful future built on the foundation laid by those who came before us.
2026: 20 Years Proud. The Future Shines Bright.
As we celebrate the 20th anniversary of Greensboro Pride, 2026 marks a historic milestone — the debut of the first-ever Greensboro Pride Parade. While Greensboro last hosted a Pride parade in 1996 when NC Pride rotated through the city, this will be the first parade created and led by IMPAQT GSO as part of our own festival. This landmark year will feature expanded festival experiences across downtown and a series of special anniversary events honoring two decades of love, resilience, and community.
Together, we’re not just celebrating how far we’ve come — we’re reigniting the spirit of Pride and lighting the way forward. Bigger. Bolder. Brighter. The future of Pride has never looked more vibrant.
