CHILLICOTHE, Ohio – A Ross County non-profit organization has become embroiled in controversy following remarks made by one of its Executive Directors. Seeds of Hope, a faith-based organization dedicated to assisting the homeless in the Ross County area, is facing backlash from local community leaders after an email sent by its Co-Executive Director, Greg Beard, drew criticism for its perceived tone of intolerance.

Seeds of Hope, according to tax filings, is organized to address the needs of the homeless population in and around Ross County by offering services such as emergency sheltering, transitional housing, and a faith-based mentoring program. However, the organization is now under scrutiny after an email response from Beard to a community notice about an upcoming vigil for Transgender Day of Remembrance was deemed controversial.

The original email, which was distributed to over 120 local leaders and organizations, invited community members to attend a candlelight vigil hosted by the First Capital Pride Coalition. Scheduled for Wednesday, November 20, at 6:00 PM, in front of the Ross County Courthouse, the vigil aims to honor the lives lost due to transphobia and violence, marking the annual Transgender Day of Remembrance.

In response to the notice, Beard replied from a Seeds of Hope email address, stating, “Pure Evil. May God expose it for what it is… pure evil. Please repent and come to Jesus Christ!” His statement was met with swift responses from other community leaders and clergy, some of whom publicly stated they would consider removing Seeds of Hope from their lists of recommended community resources.

Original email sent by Beard to community leaders.

Local leaders have voiced concerns about the implications of Beard’s remarks. Several have suggested that Beard’s comments may alienate vulnerable populations the non-profit aims to serve, including LGBTQ+ individuals experiencing homelessness.

The Guardian reached out to Seeds of Hope to clarify whether Beard’s remarks reflect the official position of the organization. At the time of this publication, the organization has not responded.

Beard later in the evening on Sunday stepped back from his previous email to the community members saying, “Yes Seeds of Hope serves women, women with children and families. It is 100% save place to be for all.”

Beard later in the evening reversed course from his original email.

According to Beard’s LinkedIn profile, he previously served as HUD/Section 8 inspector for the Chillicothe Metropolitan Housing Authority.

The incident comes amid ongoing debates over transgender rights within the state. Recently, Ohio legislators passed a bill currently awaiting Governor Mike DeWine’s signature, which would restrict transgender students from using bathrooms and locker rooms that align with their gender identity.

Simultaneously, Chillicothe City Council has been considering a resolution that seeks to denounce all forms of hate and discrimination within the city. The resolution, in part, says: “The City of Chillicothe, Ohio stands united in condemning all forms of hate, intolerance, and discrimination… Together, we will stand as a city where all are welcome, where diversity is celebrated, and where hate has no home.”

Local advocates expressed disappointment with Beard’s comments, emphasizing the importance of community solidarity and inclusivity, especially for vulnerable and marginalized groups. The upcoming vigil remains scheduled as planned, with organizers expressing hope that the event will foster empathy, awareness, and support for the LGBTQ+ community.

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