Joshua Turner grew up in Southern Arkansas all his life. Born and raised in Texarkana and Grace Covenant Church, he moved to attend Southern Arkansas University where he received Bachelor's Degree in Mass Communications and a Master's Degree in Public Administration. He has worked in Food, journalism and PR with over 8 years in the Video Game industry. Now he serves as our board president.
He was also one of the original founders to propose a Pride and a Nonprofit to run it in South Arkansas.
Contact Directly at: JoshuaT@maplesapic.org
Raven Gateley, Pine Bluff native and Watson Chapel "12 Alumni attended Southern Arkansas University where they obtained a Bachelor's in Communications Design. Loving the town they moved to Magnolia with their husband in 2016.
One of the founders Raven Gateley serves as the board's secretary.
Contact Directly at: VenG@maplesapic.org
Born in Louisiana, Kurtis has lived many places before Magnolia, Arkansas having most recently called Texas home. He is attending Southern Arkansas University(SAU) to pursue a Bachelor's in Vocal Performance. Kurtis is a member and representative of PRISM, the Gender-Sexuality Alliance at the university. He has a background of working with the college and community in places such as Vista Americorps, Abilities Unlimited, and Kids and Teen College to name a few.
One of the founding Members of Maple Sap, Kurtis currently serves as the Treasurer and Student Inclusions Director.
Contact Directly at: KurtisR@MapleSapInc.org
Texas native, Sarah Elliot has called Arkansas home for the last 20 years. When not working she enjoys gardening, her friends call her 'The Plant Lady', or her personal favorites of 'Breaker of Weeds, Queen of Blooms, or Mother of Snapdragons'! A wife, mother, and proud Cherokee woman her pronouns are Her/She (because chocolate is life).
She lives by the motto:"Humor is medicine, and variety is the spice of life"
Currently Sarah serves as the Volunteer and Outreach Director for Maple Sap Inc.
Fostering growth and acceptance of LGBTQ+ and other minorities is essential. Maple Sap does this through annual visibility festivals in the Magnolia, AR area. As an LGBTQ+ advocacy organization, we want to make sure that everyone has easy access to the information and resources they need. You’ll never feel alone with us by your side.
Through LGBTQ+ advocacy, we aim to create a stronger, more welcoming community. We keep our values in mind with every one of our activities. Our organization’s values include:
We’ll do everything in our power to make sure you feel loved and heard. Call us today to find out how you can support the movement. We look forward to hearing from you.