Who We Are & What We Do
From our Founding Director
Dear members of Barnegat Pride,
Happy Spring! Barnegat Pride's 1st Annual Pride Festival was a success-thanks to all of you! We had over 1000+ attendees, opening ceremony with an ASL interpreter, 73 vendors, 11 food trucks, free kids' zone, raffle and 50/50, beer/wine garden, and numerous entertainers that we are so grateful for. 2026 here we come!
Barnegat Pride has been dedicated to providing resources and fostering camaraderie in our community, living by our motto: "Unity in our Community."
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In our first year, we have expanded our committees and enhanced our youth outreach program, now featuring a Senior Youth Coordinator working alongside our Junior Coordinator to support and protect our most vulnerable children. We are proud to have formed partnerships with Barnegat School Districts GSA Club and their dedicated teacher moderators. Plus, we recently welcomed a passionate Social Media Coordinator who has jumped into their role with enthusiasm. We can't wait to celebrate!
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Finally, we have a member services coordinator who can assist us and you with any and all things regarding your membership, event discounts, etc. ​
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A little back story:
Barnegat Pride came about after living here for 17 years and not having any local outlets for the LGBTQIA+ community. If one wants camaraderie, they have to travel. Or, most importantly, when I think of the LGBTQIA+ children and teens of our community, I am heartbroken by the bullying and lack of protection offered someone under the age of 18. I continually worry about what might happen to a student of the community who has no resources or community to go to for help. It is this daily passion that a friend and ally, pushed me to start Barnegat Pride on March 29th, 2024 by donating the funds to start a legitimate non-profit. On April 9th, 2024, we proudly received our 501c3 non profit status, and I couldn’t be prouder of the team that came together to get us where we are today. A growing group of board members, 1000+Facebook members, a regular monthly meeting group gathering, community events and involvement, a small, intimate support group beginning May 1, 2025 (every 1st Thursday of the month thereafter) and involvement in numerous upcoming events and inclusive activities and learning sessions.
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In our first few months since March 29th, we have attended Toms River Pride as an organization, held a meet and greet with award winning Author, Ashley T. Brundage, alongside partner member New Jersey Pride Chamber of Commerce. We have partnered with ACQA (Atlantic County Queer Alliance) , became members of the Barnegat Rotarian Club and rely greatly on the resources and assistance from our most valued partner, Garden State Equality. We are in constant contact and hold seminars for and with Trans Equity Coalition, NJ Civil Rights Department, FBI Hate Crimes Unit and others.
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Lastly, but certainly not least, Barnegat Pride, in partnership and respect for our Police Department, are always ready, willing and able to assist in raising monetary funds, products and awareness for their fundraisers and dedication to service. We love working with them and we rely heavily on their support. In turn, we gladly support them back.​
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I’m proud to have started a n organization and group where friendship, family and love for one another is paramount.
​Unity in Our Community! Join us at our 3rd American Red Cross Blood Drive on July 19th from 9 am-2pm.
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Please keep coming back to see what’s new and to be a vital member of our community, you are always welcome here <3
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With Pride and Love,
Carrie Diona - President
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Follow us on our socials- @BarnegatPride
#BarnegatPride #UnityIOurCommunity
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At Barnegat Pride, our nonprofit organization is one that provides a safe space for vulnerable children, teens, adults and families who are primarily members or allies of the LGBTQIA+ community. We strive to provide community outreach to ensure that members of the LGBTQIA+ community in Barnegat and Beyond are provided services, community forums, including a true accepting community for all.
Our ultimate goal for this 1st year was met, we will be holding our own Barnegat Pride Festival and celebration on May 31st, ,2025 @ 382 N Main St., Barnegat, NJ 08005. We plan for this to to become an annual event. We also hope to have a Pride Flag raising in downtown Barnegat at the opening ceremony.
Our goal for this 2nd year, is lofty, we know. But, by the responses we have received thus far from local businesses and community members of Barnegat and Beyond, our aim is to have our own self standing Barnegat Pride Center where our community members can go to not only feel safe but have a sense of community and family on a daily basis.
With your help and commitment to assist our non profit organization, we will prevail in 2026!
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