Plan to attend the next Community Conversation set for October 5

By David Gurzenski-Lukes

Building on the community's desire for greater connection, collaboration, and shared learning, the LGBT Fund of The Erie Community Foundation has announced another Community Conversation for individuals and organizations that support and serve the LGBTQ+ community throughout the Erie region. The upcoming Community Conversation will take place on October 5 from 5:30 to 7:30 pm at Temple Anshe Hesed, located at 5401 Old Zuck Road in Erie.

Representatives from nonprofit organizations, businesses, grassroots initiatives, faith communities, social groups, and community members are invited to join this Community Conversation designed to strengthen relationships, exchange ideas, and explore opportunities to work together in support of a more inclusive and vibrant community.

"These gatherings are meant to be a true collaboration of organizations and individuals," said Bill Gonda, chair of the LGBT Fund. "The Fund may serve as the organizer, but the agenda, topics, and discussion are informed by the involvement of participants. We've been pleased to have two organizations - the Episcopal Cathedral of Saint Paul and Temple Anshe Hesed - step up to host the most recent and upcoming gatherings. That's exactly the kind of engagement and involvement among participants that the Community Conversations are meant to inspire."

"We think that the local organizations and initiatives that are committed to advancing the lives of LGBTQ+ individuals in our region can benefit greatly from collaboration with one another," Gonda continued. "To that end, we would invite anyone with a program, project or event focused on our community to participate in the next gathering on October 5."

Already scheduled to be a presenter at this Community Conversation is Erie City Council President Dr. Tyler Titus. In this capacity, Dr. Titus is the liaison to the Mayor's Office of Community Affairs. They are also the owner of Compton's Table, whose mission is to provide safe and inclusive spaces for LGBTQ+ youth.

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.