SUPPORTING PRIDE ACROSS RURAL COMMUNITIES

In 2025 the Newark Ohio Pride Coalition board were faced with growing requests from the LGBTQIA+ community asking for support. More and more we found ourselves helping other pride organizations and finding community with people all over Licking County and other nearby areas. So many were looking for a home and we realized “Newark” was no longer our single identity. The board made the decision to remove our borders and rebrand in June 2026 to SPARC.

Supporting Pride Across Rural Communities (“SPARC”) is the new name for our expanded vision 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. Come join us!