THE TRIANGLE CONNECTION, INC.
EUSTIS, FLORIDA

The Triangle Connection, Inc. is a non-profit social and service organization dedicated to serving lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals in the northern Lake County area of Florida, specifically focusing on the cities within the Golden Triangle—Mount Dora, Eustis, and Tavares. Established from humble beginnings as 'The Triangle Group' nine years ago and now known as The Triangle Connection, Inc., this organization coordinates a variety of events and initiatives to support LGBT community members who live, love, work, or play in the area. With a strong volunteer base spearheading its operations, The Triangle Connection has developed an engaged community with over 350 people on its mailing list. The monthly meet-and-greet sessions, which have been occurring since November 2006, typically attract between 50 and 80 participants of all ages from singles to couples, facilitating networking and social opportunities in diverse local restaurants and venues. Beyond the meet-ups, The Triangle Connection has made impactful contributions through civic engagement and charitable activities. It supports civil rights initiatives such as promoting stronger anti-bullying policies via its youth-support organization, The Triangle Youth Alliance. The group plays a pivotal role in fundraising efforts for local causes like the Mount Dora Dog Park, Lake Cares Food Pantry, which aids low-income households throughout Lake County, and the Hope & Help Center's services for individuals with AIDS/HIV. The organization reached critical acclaim with its 2011 production of 'From a Burning House: The AIDS Project Los Angeles Writers Workshop Collection' at The Bay Street Players Historic State Theatre in Eustis, raising over $2,000. Other activities include organizing attendance at political rallies like the "Rally in Tally," supporting LGBT civil rights. Underpinning its growth and diverse programming is a dedicated founding team, including Scot Cornwall, Bill Opperman, Ed Fenninger, Charly Schormann, Bill Sievert, John Theis, among others. The organization maintains an open model where members are encouraged to create events that foster community interest and engagement. The Triangle Connection has evolved from its predecessor, Tuesday Night Friends, and continues to serve not only locals but also those in neighboring communities like Leesburg and The Villages. Headquartered at 303 East 10th Avenue in Mount Dora, the organization upholds transparency and accountability with annual reports filed on April 17, 2024, marking its ongoing commitment as a beacon for LGBT inclusivity and community support in Florida.