Our Mission
SPARC’s mission is to build visible, authentic connections and celebrate pride across rural communities, so that LGBTQIA+ individuals, allies, and organizations can find belonging, empower each other, and create thriving spaces where everyone is seen and valued.
“Hope will never be silent.”
— Harvey Milk
Our Vision
As advocates for LGBTQ+ rights and visibility in Licking County, we're dedicated to fostering inclusivity, celebrating diversity, and supporting the LGBTQ+ community. We envision a community where all members feel connected, supported, and safe.
“I am no longer accepting the things I cannot change. I am changing the things I cannot accept.”
— Angela Davis
Our Values
BELONGING
Building inclusive communities.
AUTHENTICITY
Having the courage to be your true self.
VISIBILITY
Creating spaces where everyone feels seen and heard.
CELEBRATION
Living with joy and hope for the future.
"I want people to walk around delusional about how great they can be — and then to fight so hard for it every day that the lie becomes the truth."
— Lady Gaga
OUR BOARD
Brandy Morehouse, President
Avalee Carver, Vice President
Keira Walters, Treasurer
Amy Sanders, Secretary
Maeggan Grove, Community Engagement Chair
Jeremiah Morehouse, Media Chair
Maxim Boukhtin, Board Member
Christopher Orr, Board Member
Les Taylor, Board Member
In Loving Memory of Amy Gartner
Amy Suzanne Gartner, 47, of Newark, passed away on April 15, 2025.
Amy was born June 6, 1977 in Newark, Ohio to Tim Gartner and Sondra Brockway Gartner. In addition to her parents, Amy is survived by her wife of 21 years, Amanda Andrews; her son, Keegan Andrews-Gartner; her brother Tim Gartner; and many family members and friends.
Amy held a variety of jobs throughout her life linking her to many different people. She worked as the Camp Director of Girl Scout Camp Wakatomika for several years before transitioning to Program Director of the Donna Jean Center in Newark. She then earned her Master’s degree in teaching and most recently worked as an Intervention Specialist at NCS Digital.
Amy loved getting to know people and never knew a stranger. Her love and acceptance of all people showed through her volunteer efforts. She volunteered with several community organizations including Newark Ohio Pride Coalition, Newark Homeless Outreach, 4-H, and Girl Scouts. Amy truly strived to make this world a better place for all.
In Loving Memory of Larry Lee Lynn
Larry Lee Lynn, age 54, of Heath, passed away on Tuesday, February 21, 2023 at the Selma Markowitz Care Center (operated by Hospice of Central Ohio). A longtime volunteer, Larry served as President of the Newark Ohio Pride Coalition and was a volunteer for the Desert AIDS Project. "Larry was such an incredible person. He did so much for so many and put his heart and soul into this organization,” wrote one NOPC member. He will be greatly missed."
Obituary featured in the Buckeye Flame