The Vallarta Gay+ Community Center (VGCC) is proud to recognize and express our heartfelt gratitude to Mikel Alvarez for his invaluable contributions as Treasurer over the past year. Mikel played a critical role in the early development of our organization, offering not only his financial expertise but also opening the doors of ThrIVE MedSpa, which served as an essential space to launch our medical services.
With his deep financial acumen, Mikel built the systems and structures that guided our organization toward stability. As a founding member, his vision and generosity were instrumental in shaping the Center into what it is today.
From creating streamlined donation and accounting platforms to mobilizing his network for vital fundraising support, Mikel’s leadership set the standard for excellence, sustainability, and compassion. While his term on the Board may have concluded, his spirit and legacy remain deeply woven into the fabric of all we do.
Welcoming New Leadership
With Mikel passing the torch, we are excited to welcome Matt Karimi as our new Treasurer. Matt brings a fresh perspective and a strong commitment to transparency, sustainability, and thoughtful stewardship.
He will oversee the annual budget, guide operational strategies, and support the continued financial health of the VGCC—ensuring that our community-driven mission thrives.
We are also thrilled to announce the addition of Dr. Mitch Kushner, MD, MPH, and Luis Villavicencio as Adjunct Board Members.
Adjunct Board Members serve two-year terms in advisory, non-voting roles, actively contributing to projects while learning the inner workings of the organization—often preparing to step into full voting Board roles.
Both individuals bring extensive experience, deep community engagement, and a shared commitment to LGBTQ+ advocacy, which will further strengthen our mission of providing essential resources, education, and support to Vallarta’s queer community.
Mitchell Kushner, MD, MPH
Dr. Mitch Kushner brings over 40 years of expertise as an Infectious Disease and HIV/AIDS physician and public health leader from Long Beach, California. A part-time resident and longtime visitor to Puerto Vallarta since the 1970s, Mitch is fluent in Spanish and deeply embedded in the local community.
His professional experience includes serving as City Health Officer of Long Beach, where he oversaw 14 public health centers across Los Angeles County, and as Medical Director for Community Health Services for the LA County Department of Public Health. He has also served on the boards of the Shanti Foundation, AID FOR AIDS International, and several other advisory groups.
Mitch holds degrees from Jefferson Medical College, Tulane University, and UCLA, and is Board Certified in Internal Medicine. His unmatched expertise, empathy, and commitment to community health will be invaluable in shaping VGCC’s medical and wellness programs.
Luis Villavicencio
Luis Villavicencio is a renowned Mexican entrepreneur and LGBTQ+ advocate, bringing both a visionary business mind and a generous heart to the VGCC. He is the CEO of Red Companies, a leading digital marketing and tech engagement firm in Latin America, and the founder of PrideMx, a platform empowering Mexico’s LGBTQ+ community through visibility, education, and cultural celebration.
Luis has led a successful career in technology-driven platforms, and his innovative approach will help elevate the Center into a world-class community resource—not only physically, but also in the digital space, expanding our reach, accessibility, and impact.
“Being part of the Vallarta Gay+ Community Center is more than just an honor—it’s a personal mission,” said Villavicencio. “I believe in building spaces where every member of our community feels seen, valued, and supported.”
Poncho Dávalos Appointed as Full Board Member
We are thrilled to announce that Poncho Dávalos, who has served as an Adjunct Board Member since June 2024, has been officially elected as a Vocal (Voting) Board Member.
A trusted real estate professional with over 12 years of experience in Puerto Vallarta—and a proud resident of 15 years—Poncho’s work is rooted in trust, transparency, and deep community connections. Beyond real estate, he is a dedicated content creator and a passionate advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion and wellbeing, frequently supporting youth dance programs and showing up for community events with heart and authenticity.
His elevation to full Board Member marks a natural next step in a journey defined by generosity, visibility, and pride in the community he calls home.
VGCC Achieves Asociación Civil Status
We are proud to announce that the Vallarta Gay+ Community Center is now a fully registered Asociación Civil (AC).
This milestone marks a new chapter in our development, and we extend our heartfelt thanks to both Vallarta Cares (Almacén por el Amor de Vallarta) and CODISE of Guadalajara for supporting us during our first year of operations.
Their partnership allowed us to grow under a fiscal umbrella while building the infrastructure needed to stand independently.
We also thank CODISE for its role in representing Puerto Vallarta in the distribution of PrEP medication, which has helped save and transform lives.
Our First Year: A Growing Impact
Founded in February 2024, the VGCC has already made a profound difference in the lives of many. In our first year alone:
- Nearly 600 individuals accessed PrEP for HIV prevention
- We provided free syphilis testing and treatment to hundreds
- We hosted community support groups, including HIV and substance abuse support groups
- We launched affordable mental health services to meet the growing demand
- We held English classes, yoga sessions, salsa classes, and more
Our Organization is Growing and Evolving
As we expand, the VGCC is evolving to meet the diverse and dynamic needs of our community. New and growing programs include: - Trans, Queer, and Adult Industry Support Groups
- HIV Help and Wellness Groups
- Dedicated Space for a Psychologist
- New Volunteer Coordinator Program
- Ballroom Community practice
- Weekly Movie Nights
- Drug and Alcohol Addiction Support Groups
- Free English Classes
- Special Events for Our Donors
We are committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and thriving space for all.
A Heartfelt Thanks from Our Board
“We want to extend our deepest gratitude to Mikel for his leadership, generosity, and unwavering commitment to the Vallarta Gay+ Community Center. His contributions, especially in our early days, have been invaluable in laying the foundation for our growth. We also welcome Luis Villavicencio and Mitchell Kushner to the Board and look forward to the incredible impact their expertise and passion will bring to our community. Together, we continue to build a space of inclusivity, support, and empowerment for all.” – Don Pickens, President, Vallarta Gay+ Community Center
On behalf of the Board: Don Pickens, Mike Owens, Matt Karimi, Poncho Dávalos, and Jet De La Isla, with gratitude, pride, and renewed purpose, we move forward—together.
Stay Connected and Support Our Mission
To stay updated on our latest programs, events, and initiatives, follow us on social media:
@VallartaGayCC on Facebook and Instagram
For media inquiries or to support our mission, contact:
info@vallartagaycc.com
+52 322 128 6793
About the Vallarta Gay+ Community Center
The Vallarta Gay+ Community Center is dedicated to supporting the health and well-being of the LGBTQ+ community in Puerto Vallarta through a range of free and accessible services, including HIV testing, STD screening, PrEP, PEP, DoxyPEP, mental health services, and more. We strive to ensure that no one is turned away, regardless of their ability to donate.
www.vallartagaycenter.org
