Editor’s note: This story has been updated to reflect that Amber Carlton is the communications manager for ChangeLine.

Quiet reflection, healing and continued connection were the prevalent themes at the third annual remembrance for victims, families and survivors of the deadly 2022 attack at Club Q.

For the past two years, the memorial event had been held in the parking lot outside the club. This year’s community gathering, hosted by Prism Community Collective, took place at Hillside Gardens and Event Center on South Institute Street.

“This is such a beautiful venue,” said Amber Carlton, communications manager for ChangeLine. “It feels more like a healing space, where people can reflect and mourn in their own way.”

John Arcediano, Prism’s program and outreach coordinator, agreed that gathering near the site of the attack could trigger traumatic memories for some of the survivors.

“Personally, I struggle going to that space,” said Arcediano, who was at Club Q at the time of the shooting. “We wanted to create a new space that feels more neutral and inviting, and allows people to come together in a different place.”

The poster boards, pictures and flowers that adorned the outside of the Club Q building have been removed.

Amid the bucolic setting of Hillside Gardens, a handful of armed guards provided security, serving as a grim reminder of the reason for the gathering.

On Nov. 19, 2022, an armed assailant walked into Club Q and opened fire on the patrons, killing five people — Daniel Aston, Kelly Loving, Ashley Paugh, Derrick Rump and Raymond Green Vance — and injuring more than two dozen others.

“It was a horrific event that created a ripple effect across this community,” Arcediano said.

The tragedy and its aftermath highlighted the lack of available resources for the LGBTQ+ community in Colorado Springs, according to Arcediano. Prism Community Collective was created to help fill a need that existed long before the events of Nov. 19, 2022, he said.

“We serve those directly impacted by the Club Q tragedy, including the broader LGBTQ+ community of the Pikes Peak region,” he said.

The event itself was a quiet, closely-held affair, marked by hugs and tears, but also laughter. Attendees could reflect at a table dedicated to the five deceased Club Q victims, or they could create art projects with materials provided by Stars of Hope, an organization that uses art to promote healing and connection.

The Rev. Mallory Everhart of Vista Grande Community Church presided over a moment of silence, and there was an open-mic period for anyone who wanted to share.

Three years after the violent attack on the LGBTQ+ community, Arcediano sees an increase in support around Colorado Springs, but acknowledges there is still work to be done.

“I think we are moving in the right direction,” he said. “We are seeing an uptick in resources available. But I think we still have a long way to go.”