On Friday, Jan. 23, Fourth Fridays will once again transform a winter afternoon in Peekskill into a space of belonging, safety, and connection for LGBTQIA+ youth. The event — held at The Field Library, 4 Nelson Ave. — will begin at 5:30 p.m. and is open to teenagers in grades 9 through 12. For at least two hours, attendees will share a relaxed, enjoyable time filled with engaging activities.

The Fourth Fridays project began in 2024. It emerged as a response to a clear community concern: in Peekskill and surrounding areas, there were few consistent spaces where LGBTQIA+ teenagers could gather without fear of judgment, exposure, or pressure. Fourth Fridays addressed this concern and filled that gap. The initiative was developed as a monthly program held on the fourth Friday of each month, offering a safe space, a shared meal, and the freedom to belong.

Since its inception, privacy has been the foundation of the program. Its rules are clear: no faces are posted, no one is exposed, and what is shared in the room stays in the room. According to organizers, this ensures that participants can lower their guard, participate without fear, and trust that their identity will be respected.

The Jan. 23 meeting will continue with the same format. However, an additional activity will be offered. Improv instructor Michael Short will be the special guest. With 25 years of experience and training at renowned institutions such as Second City, United Citizens Brigade, and Magnet, Short combines professional depth with an approachable and accessible style. 

He is currently the artistic director of Blind Tiger Improv and will appear in the event as the special guest for the improv workshop, focused on trusting one’s perspective and showing up authentically, emphasizing that the most entertaining moments come from honesty rather than perfection.

Participation in the improv workshop will be optional, as with all Fourth Fridays activities. For those who choose not to participate, there will be tables with games, art supplies, and spaces for conversation. Food will remain a central component of the event, with a free dinner provided for all attendees.

Attendance on Jan. 23 requires pre-registration on the Fourth Fridays website. The organization does not request that participants share sensitive information or personal stories. For more information, contact [email protected].