50501 is a great way to get connected! They have a discord server for NC (https://discord.gg/62cWYvwgs) with channels where folks will discuss other projects for a local area, it can be a great entry point! For folks seeing this it might be worth seeing if they have a server for your state also!
Don't compete with other organizations, unite and collaborate.
Excellent words of wisdom. It will take working together.
I'm sorry to hear y'all have faced harassment, I imagine it varries by where you are. I'm fortunate enough to live somewhere pretty progressive despite being in a red state. Sending love my friend, thank you for your efforts!