Who Are We?
Fairmont Pride Inc. is a proud 501(c)3 nonprofit organization based in Fairmont, West Virginia. Our mission is rooted in the principles of Service, Community, and Advocacy for the LGBTQIA+ community in North Central West Virginia. We are dedicated to creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where all individuals can thrive and feel valued.
Service
We strive to provide essential services and resources that meet the diverse needs of our community. Through various programs and initiatives, we aim to offer support, education, and assistance to enhance the well-being of LGBTQIA+ individuals.
Community
Building a strong and connected community is at the heart of what we do. We organize events, gatherings, and activities that foster a sense of belonging and unity. Our goal is to create spaces where everyone can celebrate their identity and share their experiences.
Advocacy
We are passionate advocates for equality and justice. We work tirelessly to raise awareness, influence policy, and champion the rights of LGBTQIA+ individuals. Our advocacy efforts are focused on creating lasting, positive change in society.
Annual Fairmont Pride Event
Every year, we host the vibrant and inclusive Fairmont Pride event in Downtown Fairmont, WV. This celebration brings together people from all walks of life to honor diversity, love, and acceptance. Our Pride event features a pride market, live music, family activities, and more, providing a platform for visibility and celebration of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Join us at Fairmont Pride Inc. as we continue to build a brighter, more inclusive future for everyone. Together, we can make a difference.
President
Zane Hornbeck-Buseman
Zane Hornbeck-Buseman is a 13th generation Appalachian proud to be carrying the radical community care legacy of their family. By day, Zane works to return abandoned property to productive community use. By night, they are a fiber artist, a community advocate, a city commissioner, and the best friend and neighbor they can manage to be. Zane spent 6 years in NYC and Philadelphia developing community organizing and leadership skills, and is honored to bring their passion and work back to their home state of West Virginia.
Vice President
Brandon Mathess
Brandon is a dedicated small business owner residing in Fairmont, WV. With a passion for entrepreneurship and community development, Brandon has successfully built and managed a local business that not only provides exceptional products and services but also enriches the Fairmont community. As a proactive community member, Brandon is involved in several local organizations, contributing time and expertise to various initiatives aimed at fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for all residents.
Treasurer
Tom Jackson
Advocate, Visionary, and Proud Community Member Tom is a proud husband, father, and grandfather who brings a lifetime of diverse experiences to his work with Fairmont Pride. Having held roles ranging from retail and insurance sales to customer service in call centers and a collections law firm, Tom has always been drawn to opportunities that connect and uplift others. His favorite role was working at a domestic violence shelter, where he discovered the transformative power of compassion and advocacy.
Beyond his professional journey, Tom has devoted himself to non-profits as both an employee and volunteer, including service with churches and community organizations. Since moving to Fairmont with his husband, Chintu, in 2021, Tom has been energized by the mission of Fairmont Pride. He is passionate about the organization’s growth, its new identity and branding, and its potential to build meaningful bridges between the LGBTQ+ community and the wider Fairmont community.
Tom envisions a future where Fairmont continues to thrive as “the friendly city,” and he’s committed to helping make that vision a reality through dedication, collaboration, and heart.
Secretary
Austin Menges
Austin is a highly skilled IT professional with a deep commitment to advocacy and community service. Residing in Fairmont, WV, Austin is actively involved in numerous LGBTQIA+ organizations across three states, bringing his expertise and passion to each initiative. He works tirelessly to promote equality and support for the community. As a dedicated staff member of SkillsUSA Pennsylvania, he contributes his technical knowledge and leadership skills to help students develop their career and technical abilities. Austin’s diverse involvement and dedication make him a key figure in both the professional and advocacy realms.