The LGBT community has rallied behind the message that “It Get’s Better” in an effort to prevent teens from hurting themselves during their vulnerable adolescent years. Sometimes those difficult years are followed by the heartbreak of missed opportunity as kids without parental support, or whose academic record is less than stellar due to the pressures of bullying and harassment, struggle to pay for college. One local group is working to change that.
The PFLAG/HATCH Youth Scholarship Foundation hosts ‘Wicked Haute’ (pronounced ‘wicket hot’), Thursday, October 27 at F Bar, 202 Tuam Street. The fundraiser, which starts at 9 pm, benefits the foundation’s scholarship programs and features a “wickedly haute” fashion parade modeled by former scholarship recipients. The entertainment is coordinated by Ty Blue, FBar’s Director of Entertainment and includes plus show-stopping performances by vocalists, drag stars and dancers. Additionally, raffle tickets are available (1 for $10 and 3 for $20) for a 40 inch flat screen and other great prizes.
For the people behind the foundation, which is 100% volunteer driven, their efforts are a labor of love. “Whether you want to volunteer your time or donate your money, PFLAG HATCH Youth Scholarship Foundation is a solid investment in our LGBT Youth,” says foundation president Linda Enger. “I have been involved since 2003, and I have had the benefit of seeing our recipients complete their college education, and give back to the LGBT Community. This is a WIN WIN!”
The PFLAG/HATCH Youth Scholarship Foundation was born out of a collaboration between its two namesake organizations (Parents and Family of Lesbians and Gays and the Houston Area Teach Coalition of Homosexuals), both of which were independently raising funds to send LGBT kids to school. In 1999 they joined forces and created a separately incorporated charity with both parent organizations lending financial and volunteer support. In the last two years the Foundation has distributed over 1 million dollars to LGBT students.
There is no cover charge for the event, but a $10 donation is suggested. For information on sponsoring Wicket Haute, including information on the special VIP area email rkshipman@gmail.com
