According to Resource Center’s Marketing and Communication Coordinator Jennifer Collins,
“Approximately 15,000 LGBTQ youth live in North Texas, yet there are minimal resources available for meeting their unique needs. Resource Center’s Youth First program is the only local LGBTQ-focused youth program that addresses the challenges LGBTQ youth face with family members, peers and fellow students. Serving youth and young adults ages 12-18, Youth First equips them with the skills they need to lead an open life. Family ties are strengthened, peer support networks are built and mental health is supported through activities that build confidence and address the specific issues that LGBTQ teens face during their critical, formative years.
“Resource Center created the Young Professional Advisory Council (YPAC) in 2013 to support the Center’s Youth First program. YPAC is a unique giving circle for young professionals (45 and under) who are passionate about providing opportunities for life skills, leadership development, peer support, and educational advancement to LGBTQ youth in the Dallas area.
“YPAC raises money to specifically support the Youth First program and this year they will be hosting a special Back-To-School adult-only and after-work recess co-chaired by Lacey Brutschy and Josh Lara to raise critical funds for the upcoming school-year. Last year the event raised $27,000. This year, YPAC aims to raise $30,000. Presented by Steve Mies, the Back-To-School fundraising event will be held Thursday, August 23, from 6-8 p.m. at The Goss-Michael Foundation, 1305 Wycliff Ave., #120 in Dallas.
“Individual tickets are $50 per person. Guests will enjoy complimentary beverages, light bites, valet parking, tunes spun by DJ Brandon Moses and amazing works of art on display at the gallery.
“Sponsors included Steve Mies, Aetna, AT&T, Dallas Red Foundation and American Airlines. Additional sponsorships and tickets may be purchased at myresourcecenter.org/backtoschool.”
* Graphic and photo provided by Resource Center
