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Richmond Business Alliance is making strides in 2013!
The Richmond Business Alliance is working towards joining the National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, which will benefit all of our members.
Your membership dollars directly go towards national affiliation and future programming.
All members receive these perks:
- Premium directory listing
- Free access to networking events
- The opportunity to be featured as a spotlighted business and event host.
- The opportunity to serve on RBA's programming and membership committees.
Sign up today!
Questions?
Send Us An Email!
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GCCR Participates in CFC, CVC, and LGS Campaigns
 GCCR is pleased to participate in the Combined Federal Campaign, the Commonwealth of Virginia Campaign for State employees, and the Local Government and Schools Campaign.
Our charity numbers are: CFC: 74787 CVC: 3802 LGS: 8183 GCCR is listed in these directories under our legal name: "Richmond Gay Community Foundation." We thank all the Federal, State and local government employees who support our work by selecting GCCR during the enrollment period.
Click these links to learn more about the CFC, CVC, and LGS campaigns.
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GCCR Committee Volunteers Wanted!
I nterested in being on a Committee at GCCR? We are looking for someone just like you! Talented and or Passionate about Programming, Marketing, and other areas? Please contact Bill Harrison for details.
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Event or Meeting Space Needed?
The Gay Community Center of Richmond has meeting, conference and event space for groups from 10 to 500. Our gallery has four rooms suitable for receptions, group discussions and meetings up to 40 people. Our Event Hall can accommodate up to 500 guests for concerts, trade shows, community meetings, banquets and much more.
Click the links below for pictures and floorplans of our facilities.
Event Hall
Gallery
Classroom
Already know the space you want to rent out?
Fill out the rental application
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Add your events
to our Calendar!
Have an upcoming event? Our events calendar is seen on GayRichmond.com. Submit the details of your upcoming event and we'll help you get the word out.
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GLBT SUPPORT GROUP AT McGUIRE MEDICAL CENTER
GLBT SUPPORT GROUP @ V.A.
~ Safe Sharing for we who Served ~
ANNOUNCING:VETERAN SUPPORT GROUP
for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual & Transgendered
WHERE: Room 1D-113
Mcquire Medical Center, Richmond VA
WHEN:1st & 3rd WEDNESDAY @ 3:00
CONTACT: Jennifer Lumpkin, Psy.D., 804/675-5000, x2792 OR Jae Yeon Jeong, Ph.D., 804-675-5152
Please feel free to contact for information, directions, or questions.
Click Here for More Hunter McGuire Website
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Receive the Latest Local LGBT News and Event Information Biweekly! 
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 A Message From Our Executive Director
Dear Friends:
The last thirteen months have been an exciting time for us.
Last year at this time our building was for sale. There was no plan for relocation had it sold. It has since been removed from the market and we are actually planning thrift store expansion. We paid off debt that had amassed and now our financials are in better shape than they have been in years.
The Foundation was originally created with the mission of raising funds to support other LGBT organizations. While hundreds of thousands of dollars had been contributed back into the community, the grants program had been dormant for several years. Last December we awarded eleven organizations money to help continue their good works. More will be gifted this year.
Last autumn, in conjunction with Virginia Commonwealth University, we launched a community-wide needs assessment to gauge what our community needs from a Center. (See article below about the status of the study.)
Months ago when talking with other LGBT organizations, I learned that several were no longer using our facility as our meeting rooms were in such disarray that it was "demoralizing" to meet in them. The rooms are now accommodating, freshly painted and often occupied.
Our program, the Richmond Business Alliance, somewhat of an LGBT chamber of commerce, had fallen by the wayside. Today it is a vibrant project, led by sharp, enthusiastic young people, most who are new to our organization. (See article below.) Another program, the Central Virginia Rainbow Partnership, had also dissipated. A few weeks ago about 25 people met, in an effort to revive the Partnership. (See article below.)
Many of us had enjoyed the art exhibits that graced our gallery, but they had become nonexistent over the last year or so. This past Friday we celebrated the gallery reopening with an exhibit, the first of four that are scheduled in the next few months.
These are but a few of the accomplishments that you helped make possible. Our board of directors has been at the helm of leadership, ensuring that we be as transparent as possible, welcoming input and ideas. We have a ways to go, but our progress shows that we are on the right track. If you have questions or ideas, I want to hear from you. This place belongs to all of us.
Best,
Bill Harrison
Executive Director
[email protected]
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GAY COMMUNITY CENTER OF RICHMOND UPDATES
THANK YOU, CINDY BRAY
Recent restructuring and examination of the Gay Community Foundation brought about the elimination of the program manager position. Cindy Bray has held that position since 2006. During her time at the Foundation, Cindy played an instrumental role in countless numbers of projects. That list is far too extensive for this newsletter, but listed are a few examples of her good work:
 Cindy was a major force in creating our art gallery. She enlisted the help of a curator and delivered several exhibits each year. While we celebrate the recent reopening of the gallery, we must remember Cindy and the volunteers she recruited in creating the concept that has brought countless numbers of people to the Community Center, not to mention the enormous support lent to LGBT artists.
Cindy basically brought SAGE to Central Virginia, bringing notoriety and credibility to the Foundation. She is a trained facilitator and educator for LGBT aging issues and has enlisted the help of numerous SAGE volunteers, growing the Center family. She has also played a major role in spreading the word to our community about issues related to LGBT seniors and their families.
I know that you join me in wishing Cindy the very best as we thank her for the years of service that she has given to the Foundation and the community.
Bill Harrison Beth Marschak
Executive Director Board Chair
TERRY EISE SHOW CONTINUES AT GCCR
Following a successful opening, "Up Close and Personal," will remain on exhibit through April 12 at the GCCR galleries, 1407 Sherwood Avenue.The works, by local artist Terry Eise, have garnered much attention.
The gallery is open seven days a week, 10:00 a.m. till 5:00 p.m. On Saturdays and Sundays, please enter the gallery through Diversity Thrift. For more information, call 804-622-4646, ext. 20 or 804-353-8890.
GAY COMMUNITY STAFF TO GO ON STAGE AT "FUN FOR A CAUSE"
What is big, burly, loud, brash, hilarious and can sing like a songbird? The answer will be found on stage at the annual "Fun for a Cause", when our drag community goes all out to raise much needed funds for us, the Fan Free Clinic and ROSMY. You must be there to cheer (and tip) all our performers, but especially the Community Foundation crew.
In just 2 weeks "Fun For a Cause" will take place. Final details and touches are being put on the event and it is shaping up to be one of the most exciting yet. We have some amazing new sponsors this year as well as our returning corner stone sponsors (The Renaissance, Saxon Shoes and Adolf Jewelers). To purchase tickets, visit http://funforacause2013.eventbrite.com
or visit
the Facebook fan page Fun For A Cause RVA or our Twitter account under the same name.
CENTRAL VIRGINIA RAINBOW PARTNERSHIP SETS GOALS
Representing local LGBT organizations, about 25 people gathered recently to discuss the future of the Central Virginia Rainbow Partnership. Organized several years ago to help keep our community connected and unified, the group had almost dissolved, but, enthusiasm was certainly the mood of the this meeting as ideas were discussed about what roles the organization could play.
 Facilitated by Allison Conyers of the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities, the two-hour meeting was productive in several ways. Committees were formed to address issues such as researching the possibility of creating a LGBT community liaison with the Richmond City Police Department, addressing the on-going increase in HIV rates and researching ways to better connect our community to local governments. For more information, contact [email protected].
COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT PROGRESSING WELL, PHASE II IN PROCESS
Last autumn, in partnership with Virginia Commonwealth University, we launched a community-wide needs assessment to gauge the interests, desires and needs of the local LGBT communities. The study will also help organizations other than the Richmond Gay Community Foundation with their strategic planning.
Susan White, PhD, Director of VCU's Survey and Evaluation Research Laboratory, presented a synopsis of the survey's findings to the Foundation's Board of Directors at their February meeting. The next step in the survey process is conducting focus groups, particularly for populations underrepresented in the survey. Transgender persons, African Americans, people between ages 21 and 28 and individuals who did not attend college will comprise the first focus groups. The Foundation is partnering with organizations such as the University of Richmond, Virginia State University, the Fan Free Clinic, and ROSMY to coordinate the groups. VCU staff will facilitate the groups which will begin this month.
"This is an on-going process," shared Board Chair, Beth Marschak. "We will continue to find ways to connect with our community. Communication is key to inclusion and solving problems." For more information about the assessment, contact
[email protected].
UPCOMING GCCR EVENTS
"Brother Outsider" movie screening at Richmond Triangle Players
Sunday, March 17 at 7:30 (doors open at 7). Brother Outsider is the definitive biography of one of the most controversial figures of the Civil rights Movement. He was one of the first "freedom riders" an advisor to Martin Luther King, Jr. and A Philip Randolph, organizer of the 1963 March on Washington. He was intelligent, gregarious and charismatic. Rustin was denied his place in the limelight for one reason - he was gay. This is a fascinating biography dealing with the interplay of personal and political in the life of a complex, multi-talented essential figure in American Radicalism. March 17 would have been Rustin's 101st Birthday; come celebrate! Free Event, Donations accepted, give as you are able.
OWLS - Older Wiser Lesbian Discussion Group
Monday March 18 in the GCCR Gallery from 7 pm - 8:30 pm. For Lesbian or Bisexual Women age 40+, come together to discuss topics of interest chosen by the group. This group meets monthly. March is Women's History Month - Come talk to us about your favorite woman/historical figure.
Book Group meeting
First Meeting, March 25 7:30 pm in the GCCR Lounge. The book is Art on Fire by Hilary Sloin. If you like to read LGBTA literature and discuss it, please join us for these meetings. This is a group for ALL interested in reading and discussing LGBTQ literature. Women's Coming Out Support Group The next meeting of the Women's Coming Out Support Group will meet 4/1/13 at the Gay Community Center, 1407 Sherwood Avenue. The group is a forum for open discussion about the coming out process for women. Whether you are newly out, still coming out, have been out for a while or are questioning... all are welcomed! Meetings are from 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm on the first Monday of the month. The group is sponsored by Metropolitan Community Church of Richmond, (MCC), www.mccrichmond.org and The Gay Community Center of Richmond (GCCR), www.gayrichmond.com. For more information, please contact facilitators Loretta Mountcastle, [email protected], or Martha Ann Spruill, [email protected].
"Edie and Thea: A Very Long Engagement"
Sunday, April 14 at 7:30 (doors open at 7). Edie Windsor and Thea Spyer met in New York City's West Village in 1965, and for both of them, it was love at first sight. This movie is their story. Today Edie is challenging the Defense of Marriage Act and her case will be heard by the US Supreme Court on March 26. Local Attorney, Kate Fletcher will discuss the possible outcomes and implications. Free event, Donations accepted, please give as you are able.
USF STUDENTS SPEND SPRING BREAK HELPING LOCALS
 Several wonderful young people from the University of South Florida, spent their spring break helping Richmond LGBT organizations. The students donated a week during their "Alternative Spring Break" volunteering at Diversity Thrift and Diversity Bingo, the Fan Free Clinic, University of Richmond, ROSMY and Equality Virginia.
Pictured are some of them helping with clothing and pricing articles at Diversity Thrift. They also visited with the Human Rights Campaign Fund in Washington, D.C. prior to returning to school.
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RICHMOND BUSINESS ALLIANCE UPDATE
BUSINESS ALLIANCE HEARS SHAUNA BROWN AT FEBRUARY EVENT 
It's not something that we like thinking about, but our "golden years" present issueswe need to consider. With that in mind, Richmond Business Alliance member, Shauna Brown of New York Life presented at the group's February meeting. Issues such as retirement savings, Social Security, assisted living and nursing home expenses were discussed. Shauna's program was well received and gave us lots to consider.
The RBA is the business association for the LGBT-friendly business, working professionals and nonprofit organizations. A few months ago the RBA's Board began the process of breathing new life into the alliance and establishing it as an anchor in both the GLBT community and the Greater Richmond business community at-large. The RBA is quickly transforming into a robust organization that not only provides exposure to our members' businesses and professional organizations, but one that offers compelling educational programming opportunities, various networking and social events, as well as member-only specials throughout the year.
The RBA is currently partnered with organizations such as CenterStage and Equality Virginia, in talks with the Greater Richmond Chamber of Commerce, the National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, Richmond City Council members and Senator Mark Warner's office about future endeavors.
Our leadership cabinet is being headed by Justin Ayars, JD. For more information, click on to www.richmondbusinessalliance.com or call the Richmond Gay Community Foundation at 804-622-4646, ext. 20.
RICHMOND BUSINESS ALLIANCE ANNOUNCES MARCH EVENT
The Richmond Business Alliance is excited to announce our next event! Join the Richmond Business Alliance on Thursday, March 21st from 6:00-8:00 PM for a complimentary wine tasting at Shockoe Bottom's C'est La Vin. During our March networking event, enjoy light hors d'oeuvres with wine available for purchase by the glass or bottle.
 C'est La Vin knows the art of relaxation rests in the small things in life. They've created a cozy spot where wine can be sipped, food can be savored, and friends can always be seen. With our passion for all things wine, they've handpicked a widespread list of affordable wines from around the globe meant for the newbie and connoisseur alike. So, whether you're trying a complex red or a crisp white, the unique art, distinctly flavored small plates, and relaxed atmosphere will be sure to compliment.
Come experience the ambiance of a fantastic local wine bar, enjoy a glass of wine, and network with other LGBT-friendly professionals in the Richmond area. We hope to see you on Thursday, March 21st at 6:00 at C'est La Vin, 15 N 17th St, Richmond, VA.
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UPCOMING RICHMOND EVENTS
JFS AND CIRCLE CENTER ADULT SERVICES HOST "EVENING OF GLAMOR AND CHANCE"
 Join us for an evening of elegant fun, chance, an excitement!
Dancing, casino games, horse racing, raffles, auction, open bar, and delicious food!
One of a kind event in Richmond to help improve families' chances to have healthier, happier lives!
Tickets: $75 per person. Black tie optional. More details on the website.
RICHMOND MEN'S CHORUS PRESENTS "EVERYTHING POSSIBLE"
The Richmond Men's Chorus will present EVERYTHING POSSIBLE: A Concert in Support of the "It Gets Better Project"; with special guests, Potomac Fever, Slam Richmond - Youth and Q94's Jackson Scott.
 Directed by Artistic Director and RMC Director, Timothy Gillham, EVERYTHING POSSIBLE: A Concert in Support of the "It Gets Better Project" will be performed Sunday, March 24 at 4:00pm at VCU's W. E. Singleton Center for the Performing Arts, 922 Park Avenue, Richmond.
ROSMY'S ANNUAL SPRING TIME EVENT: A JAZZY AFFAIRThe holidays may be on your mind, but before you know it, it'll be Spring! Save the date for next year's Springtime: A Jazzy Affair on April 20 to benefit ROSMY's programming that supports LGBTQ youth in Central Virginia. For more information, visit: http://www.rosmyspringtime.org/  FUN FOR A CAUSE RETURNS FOR FIFTH YEAR 
Fun For a Cause once again returns for it's 5th year, and promises to be one of thebest yet!
Come out on Tuesday, March 26th from 7-11pm at the Renaissance (107 W. Broad St).
This years event will benefit several local LGBTQ Non-Profits including:
FAN FREE CLINIC, Gay Community Center of Richmond, and ROSMY.
With some of your favorite local entertainers taking the stage once again at this amazing community event-Mistress of ceremonies, Natasha Carrington, will once again wield the mic and keep the show moving swiftly and professionally.
Advanced ticket prices are $10.00 (be sure to get yours early as they will be $15.00 at the door). As in years past a "cash" bar will be available, as well as tip exchange and multiple raffles running throughout the night.
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EQUALITY VIRGINIA TO HOST 10th ANNUAL EQUALITY DINNER
EV is excited to announce a true advocate for equality -- Newark, New Jersey Mayor Cory Booker will be delivering the keynote address at this year's Commonwealth Dinner.
Click here to purchase your ticket.
 Mayor Booker has been a longtime champion for LGBT equality and we know you will love him. He first took the office of mayor in July 2006 and was re-elected in 2010 with another overwhelming majority. Now, he has his eyes on a U.S. Senate bid for 2014.
He's known for his innovative ideas and bold actions. Booker has been named one of TIME's most 100 influential people, and has also received recognition in Esquire and the New York Times Magazine for his leadership.
This rising political star is sure to make our 10th Annual Commonwealth Dinner an evening to remember.
Yours in equality,
James Parrish
Executive Director
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CALLING ALL BEARS! WE NEED YOU!
 As part of his doctoral work in counseling, Roanoke student, Gregory Turner is conducting a study about gay men who identify as bears.
Interviews will be conducted by Turner at the Gay Community Center. For more information, contact Gregory Turner at 540-819-1758 or e-mail Gregory at [email protected].
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RTP'S "BUSY WORLD IS HUSHED" ENTRANCING AUDIENCES AND CRITICS ALIKE!
With wisdom, humor and insight, The Busy World Is Hushed examines the contradictions we find in our faith, our families and ourselves.
Hannah (Linda Beringer), an Episcopal minister and Bible scholar, finds her faith at odds with that of Thomas (Chris Hester), her estranged, wayward son. But when an inquisitive young writer (Chris O'Neill) hired to assist Hannah with her latest publication learns painful secrets from Hannah's past, she sees a risky, unconventional opportunity for reconciliation.
The Hollywood Reporter calls The Busy  World Is Hushed "a theatrical miracle -- a complex, thought-provoking look at why religion, faith, and the human heart can't always be reconciled."
The Busy World Is Hushed is a proud part of the Acts of Faith Festival, the largest faith-based theater festival in the United States.
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LONGTIME MCC RICHMOND PASTOR LEAVES FOR NEW CALLING
Longtime Metropolitan Community Church leader Pastor Robin Gorsline recently announced he will be vacating his pulpit to assume a full-time leadership position with People of Faith for Equality in Virginia.
Says Gorsline, "...I hear a call from God to undertake a new assignment: to assume full-time leadership of People of Faith for Equality in Virginia (POFEV). This new task means I am to care for the souls of a much larger congregation: inspiring people throughout Virginia to connect with the abundance of God, especially the glorious diversity of the people of the Commonwealth."
Please click here for the full text of Rev. Gorsline's message.
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HRC's "UNITED FOR MARRIAGE" TO RALLY AT SUPREME COURT
 This is a critical moment for marriage equality. The good news is that a strong and bipartisan majority of Americans believe the freedom to marry is a Constitutional right.
The Supreme Court will hear oral arguments on two historic cases related to marriage equality later this month. Both cases are about whether same-sex couples should have the same freedoms as everyone else.
HRC is part of a coalition of grassroots leaders, families and advocates - called United for Marriage - all working together on a series of events across the country and right in front of the Court on this day.
Join us in DC on Tuesday, March 26th, to demonstrate to America just how broad the support for marriage equality has become.
Supporters of marriage equality will rally outside the Supreme Court on March 26, the first day of hearings. Can we count on you to lend your voice on this historic day? Together we will show the nation that we believe all Americans deserve to be treated fairly and equally under the law - no matter who they love.
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NATIONAL GAY & LESBIAN TASKFORCE HOSTS WEEKEND OF EVENTS
 The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force is celebrating 40 years in the LGBT movement. As part of this celebration, Pink & Purple Weekend triumphantly returns with a lineup of events that is sure to kick your summer off into high gear a little earlier than you expected!
From dancing under the stars to honoring leaders and allies, Pink & Purple Weekend is a celebration of who we are as a community, how far we've come and looks ahead to where we're going as a movement.
There's something for everyone. Don't miss a minute!
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LGBT NEWS AND VIEWS
REPORT: NFL INVESTIGATING TEAMS ASKING ABOUT SEXUAL PREFERENCE
 (NY Post) The NFL is looking into allegations certain teams have asked a draft prospect about his sexual orientation.
Reports surfaced yesterday Colorado tight end Nick Kasa was asked whether or not he liked girls during the interview process at the NFL Scouting Combine.
"We will look into the report on the questioning of Nick Kasa at the Scouting Combine," NFL spokesman Greg Aiello said in a statement. "It is league policy to neither consider nor inquire about sexual orientation in the hiring process." Read more here >>
JOHN HUNTSMAN URGES REPUBLICANS TO SUPPORT SAME-SEX MARRIAGE
(Yahoo) Republican former presidential candidate Jon Huntsman is urging Republicans to support same-sex marriage, calling the effort "a conservative cause." The stance is a reversal, as he had reaffirmed his opposition to extending marriage rights to gays as late as 2011. Read more here >>
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VIRGINIA HISTORICAL SOCIETY NEEDS YOUR BOOKS!
 The Virginia Historical Society is looking for donations of gently used hard and soft cover, fiction and nonfiction books. We are asking that they be in good condition and have a historical connection.
All books collected will be sold at deeply discounted prices during the VHS Summer Book Sale on Saturday, June 15.
Books may be donated at the VHS Museum Shop during regular business hours: Monday-Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sunday from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Donations are tax deductible. All money raised from the book sale will be used to support VHS educational initiatives.
If you have questions about book donations or the sale, please contact the Museum Shop at 804.342.9671.
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