Last month's LGBT Fund event considered a major success

by David Gurzenski-Lukes

LGBT Funds of Erie Community Foundation welcomed representatives fro several area organizations at the Community Conversation at Erie Community Foundation on January 13. Photo by Michael Mahler.

It was billed as a Community Convening that took place on January 13 at the Erie Community Foundation. Organized by the LGBT Fund of the Foundation, the event brought together leaders of local organizations, businesses, religious congregations, and others who serve and support the Erie region's LGBTQ+ community.

There were approximately 40 individuals in attendance at the gathering, for which Bill Gonda, chair of the LGBT Fund, was most pleased. "It was rewarding to see so many of the attendees talking to each other and exchanging information about the activities they had developed," said Bill. "I could almost feel that collaborative efforts would result from the evening."

While notice of the event was sent to all addresses on the Community Foundation mailing list, Bill said he was most grateful to Michael Mahler, editor of the Erie Gay News, who helped get the word out. "Because Michael attends so many activities in our community, he made sure that notice of our event was received by leaders of all LGBTQ+ organizations in the area."

The primary reason for the outreach program is to explore ways the LGBT Fund might help strengthen the work these groups are doing to make life better for LGBTQ+ individuals in our region, according to Bill. The January 13th gathering began at 5:30 pm and was meant to wrap up by 7 pm, "but the exchange between attendees was going so well we could have been there until 10 pm." Unfortunately, not too much information was presented about how groups can apply for financial assistance from the fund. Bill suggested that those interested contact lgbt@eriecommunityfoundation.org. Applications for Erie Community Foundation grants will open in the fall to all 501 (c) (3) nonprofit LGBT organizations.

About the Author

David Gurzenski-Lukes David Gurzenski-Lukes has a bachelor's and master's degree in journalism from Arizona State University and the University of Arizona. He has a long career as an editor and communications professional for a number of universities, including UCLA. He was a publications editor for United Way of Greater Los Angeles and community relations director for Pacific Beach Community Hospital in San Diego, California. Since David has been retired, he has written a book, "A Gay Grandfather Grows Up," which details his difficult coming-out journey. While David has only been an Erie resident for a short period, he is already involved with various local organizations, including Aging With Pride. He has two daughters with professional careers. Jennifer is an attorney in Washington, DC, and Julie is a computer programmer in Jupiter, Florida. He also has two grandsons. Drew is a pilot with American Airlines, and Jake is a student at Florida State University.