Our Mission
Founded in 2008, Upstate Pride SC is a volunteer-driven nonprofit organization dedicated to serving the LGBTQ+ community.
Upstate Pride SC empowers people of all gender expressions and sexual identities in the Upstate of South Carolina by promoting acceptance through education, advocacy and networking.
What We Do
From challenging discriminatory ordinances to collaborating on research studies to hosting monthly social meetups, Upstate Pride SC is dedicated to driving positive social change and promoting unity among the LGBTQ+ community in our area.
Our initiatives include providing peer counseling and health support, conducting advocacy training, offering a speakers bureau for organizations and academic institutions, providing safe spaces for gathering and networking, and hosting inclusive and affirming events.
In addition to our year-round events and activities, UPSC hosts two major annual festivals where all are welcome: the summer Black Pride Week celebration in Greenville and the fall Pride March & Festival in Spartanburg.
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What We Believe
Our commitment to intersectionality isn't just rhetoric; it's woven into the fabric of our organization.
We believe that true progress can only be achieved through power-sharing and collaboration. By amplifying the voices of those historically marginalized, we strive to create a more inclusive and equitable society for all.
Upstate Pride SC was founded in 2008. Throughout the years, we have continued to grow and thrive, creating visibility, change, and a sense belonging for LGBTQ+ people in the Upstate community.
UPSC Through the Years
2009
500
event attendees
2010
3,000
event attendees
2015
5,000
event attendees
2021
7,500
event attendees
2025
20,000+
event attendees
Terena Starks has over three decades of experience within the US Postal Service and Terena's commitment to her work is evident by her longevity. As the President and Black Pride Director of Upstate Pride SC, Terena tirelessly advocates for the rights and visibility of the LGBTQ+ community, a cause close to her heart as a non-binary member of the community. Terena also serves on Infinite Possibilities (IP) board of directors as a member-at-large, with a focus on services for unsheltered and at-risk families.
Terena is a native of Greenville and a veteran. Terena's life has been defined by her dedication to community, family, and professional excellence. In addition to her work with Upstate Pride SC and IP, Terena is a devoted wife and mother, cherishing the time spent with her family above all else. As an entrepreneur, she is the proud owner of Twin2 Enterprises LLC and Twin2 Logistics LLC, demonstrating her business acumen and drive.
Outside of her professional and advocacy work, Terena finds solace and joy in outdoor adventures. From hiking to cycling to kayaking, she embraces the beauty of nature and the thrill of exploration. Yet, amidst all her endeavors, Terena holds onto a fundamental belief – that every new day is an opportunity to love and be grateful.
About
terena@upstatepridesc.org
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Board President
Terena
Starks
Clarence Glenn Alarcon is an Spartanburg SC native, devoted father, husband, activist and businessman . He proudly describes himself as a “serial entrepreneur,” driven by a willingness to take bold leaps of faith to introduce fresh ideas and innovative solutions. A Top Producing Realtor since 2018 and an entrepreneur since 2014, Clarence has built a reputation for leadership, vision, and results.
As an LGBTQ+ activist and philanthropist, Clarence has served the community since 2012. He is widely recognized for his volunteerism with Upstate Pride and Upstate Black Pride, where he has served on the Executive Board and multiple committees since 2019. His advocacy also includes work with the Campaign for Southern Equality through the WE DO campaign, which helped bring marriage equality to South Carolina in 2014.
Clarence’s vision for the future is to continue serving the Upstate LGBTQ+ community as a passionate, people-centered community leader, dedicated to equity, empowerment, and lasting impact.
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clarence@upstatepridesc.org
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President Elect
Clarence Glenn Alarcon
Caroline is the founder and director of the non-profit New Mind Health and Care that provides free specialized behavioral modification services to individuals, families, and children affected by incarceration or criminal histories. She is the creator of the ReFlight Curriculum for cognitive behavioral education and change. She has over 20 years’ experience as a clinical mental health therapist and 10 years’ experience as a Federal Officer.
Caroline is also the sole proprietor of ReFlight LLC, a consulting firm specializing in providing behavioral and life coaching services for organizations to improve employee function, retention and the development of positive work culture. She is an ordained minister with the Universal Life Church Ministries and specializes in bringing love, honor, and joy to same-sex, gender neutral and non-binary marital unions. As a professional public speaker, life coach and all-around doer of “Good Things,” Caroline is a fierce advocate for marginalized groups including LGBTQ+, QPOC, and returning citizens.
"My reason for joining the Board was to serve my community, but to also engage the organization in equity, diversity, inclusion, and intersectionality. There were no women on the board and no people of color. I know that representation matters. So being a part of UPSC was a way to open and hold space for others who didn’t see themselves."
About
caroline@upstatepridesc.org
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Executive Director
Caroline
Caldwell
and Director of Sponsorship and Partnership for Upstate Pride SC.
By day, Donnie works in HR as the Senior Director of Operations for Newrez, LLC, where he oversees strategic and people‑focused initiatives. He is also the chair of the company Pride ERG group and has also led volunteer and philanthropic efforts. Earlier in life, he was deeply involved in the drag and pageant community, designing custom costumes and evening gowns for some of the most talented performers. He also created and owned the Miss Ebony NC pageant and judged many other state and local competitions.
Donnie is committed to creating inclusive, affirming spaces and believes Pride is a year‑round commitment to equity, joy, and community care.
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donnie@upstatepridesc.org
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Treasurer and Director of Sponsorships
Donnie Gravley
Coming Soon!
About
dalton@upstatepridesc.org
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Director of Events & Community Outreach
Dalton Ribble
Coming Soon!
About
paris@upstatepridesc.org
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Director of Entertainment
Paris Wright
Kels Stewart is a community advocate, nonprofit leader, and professional DJ with over 20 years of experience performing as DJ Kels. She brings a deep passion for creating inclusive, affirming spaces where people feel seen, celebrated, and connected.
Kels serves as the Founder and Executive Director of Infinite Possibilities, Inc., a Greenville-based nonprofit focused on preventing youth homelessness and strengthening families through housing support, resource navigation, and self-esteem building programs.
Her commitment to equity extends strongly into her work with the LGBTQ+ community. Kels has supported Upstate Pride SC for more than a decade through board service, volunteerism, and providing DJ services for Pride events and community celebrations. As a Member-at-Large, she is dedicated to uplifting diverse voices, fostering belonging, and helping create vibrant, safe spaces for all across the Upstate.
About
kels@upstatepridesc.org
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she/her
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Member At-Large
Kels Stewart
Ready to Get Involved?
We can't wait to help you get connected in the community!
We know it can be difficult to find LGBTQ+ resources in the south. That’s why we’ve created a central hub for everything from Pride events to support groups to affirming health care, and everything in between, so LGBTQ+ upstate residents can get connected to their community and access the resources they need.
We are actively seeking to create open spaces for your ideas and your passions! Whether you’re a lifelong member of the Upstate community or have just arrived here yesterday, we’re here to help you get involved in a community of support where you can thrive and show up in a way that feels great to you!
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