TYLER, Texas — The Glass House Resource Center Executive Director Erin Bailey will step down from her role on May 31 after five years in the role, according to a statement released by the organization.
Bailey, 44, led the LGBTQ+ nonprofit through its formation in 2021, when it broke away from Tyler Area Gays+ and housed only a youth program, Alphabet Army. She was its main steward over the last five years and opened a physical resource center in Tyler in 2024. Bailey said in a Facebook post that her departure is driven by a need to focus on her family and health.
“My time with The Glass House and Alphabet Army is coming to an end,” she said, adding that she plans to remain involved as a volunteer.
Al Whitaker, a board member for The Glass House board confirmed Bailey’s departure, expressing gratitude for her dedication to Tyler’s queer community. A statement from the organization said Bailey will step down on the same day The Glass House’s brick-and-mortar resource center marks its second anniversary.
Whitaker and Bailey said operations will continue under the board’s leadership following Bailey’s exit.
The leadership transition comes as the board recently elected new officers. Whitaker was named board chair, and Lexi Woods was elected secretary. They join Treasurer D. Karen Wilkerson and board member Qualyn Stark on the center’s decision-making body.
The Glass House is also preparing for its anniversary celebration and East Texas Giving Day, its largest annual fundraiser, on April 28. Bailey encouraged community members to support the effort, writing that she hopes to “end our biggest fundraiser of the year with a bang.”
Based in Tyler, The Glass House Resource Center provides support, education, outreach and advocacy for LGBTQ+ individuals across East Texas.
— Caroline Savoie