Side by Side will host its annual Springtime fundraiser in-person and virtually for 2021. The LGBTQ+ youth-serving nonprofit partnered with popular pop-up market Safe Space RVA to create a free community fair and screening of Springtime at Diversity Richmond on August 14 from 6-10 p.m.
The event – which typically takes place during the springtime – airs on Facebook and YouTube at 8:30 p.m. and will feature musicians, interviews and more. Local drag entertainer Alvion Arnell Davenport and Side by Side Associate Board President Mayme Donahue will co-host live from studios in Downtown Richmond. Big Stone Gap, Va-based fiddler and guitarist Tyler Hughes and local singer Kyra Danyell will perform songs during the broadcast, in addition to a special appearance by actress and producer Rosario Dawson.
The Diversity Richmond in-person gathering begins at 6 p.m. in the organization’s parking lot with Safe Space Market vendors, community partners, food trucks, beer and wine and music. Side by Side organizers will screen the Springtime broadcast at 8:30 p.m. Youth and families are welcome.
Safe Space Market strives to support, celebrate and promote the visibility of Richmond LGBTQ+/BIPOC makers, artists and small-business owners.
The theme for this year’s Springtime is “You are loved” to represent the resiliency and power of LGBTQ+ youth as the community navigates the pandemic.
“We are excited to welcome the community to an inclusive and celebratory Springtime fundraiser,” said Natasha McKeller Crosby, Side by Side Board President. “Side by Side is proud to work alongside LGBTQ+ young people every day through our programming and outreach. Springtime gives people the opportunity to come together virtually or in-person in support of LGBTQ+ youth. We hope everyone joins us for this fun, impactful and free event.”
Side by Side organizes weekly support groups for LGBTQ+ youth across Virginia. The nonprofit has hosted virtual meetings since last year to keep youth, volunteers and staff safe during the pandemic. Side by Side also provides LGBTQ+ inclusivity trainings to companies and organizations, in addition to partnering with schools to create affirming, safer spaces for LGBTQ+ youth throughout Virginia.
RSVP for Springtime at www.sidebysideva.org/springtime.
