10/16/2026
Nearly 10 years ago, a seed was planted.
In 2017, Salus Center began with a vision: to build and serve an inclusive 2SLGBTQIA+ community in Greater Lansing. Over the years, that seed has grown into a vibrant community rooted in connection, care, and belonging.
As we look toward our 10th anniversary in 2027, we’re celebrating the people who planted those roots, nurtured growth, and helped create the community we know today.
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In 2017, Phiwa Langeni had a simple but powerful idea: Greater Lansing needed a dedicated, inclusive LGBTQIA+ community center.
As Executive Director, Phiwa Langeni helped establish the roots of Salus Center, supporting the creation of more than 17 social and support groups and fostering countless community connections.
In 2020, Phiwa entrusted Salus Center to the Lansing community, to ensure it would continue to be shaped by the people it serves.
Salus Center weathered difficult seasons during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Through the tremendous leadership of Oprah Jrenal, Izze Copeland, and Dio Aldridge, affectionately known as our Tri-Directors, Salus Center remained standing through uncertainty.
From 2020 to 2021, they successfully transitioned Salus Center to a 501(c)3 nonprofit and undertook massive fundraising efforts to ensure Salus Center was financially sustainable. This ensured our community continued to have a place to turn for connection and support.
Growth often comes from planting for the future.
In 2023, Salus Center hired its first full-time employee, Frank Heveran, who had been a contractor since 2021, as Program Director. Under Frank’s leadership, creativity, and commitment to care, Salus Center has flourished.
As our roots deepened, our branches reached even farther.
Under Frank’s leadership, Salus Center launched Resource Hours, our free Care Package Station, and our annual Prom. These programs strengthened what has always been at the heart of Salus Center: creating a welcoming canopy where people can find community and care.
One tree can offer shelter. A forest can transform a community.
For nearly 10 years, Salus Center has gro
