December 2014

MESSAGE FROM CECE

I am often struck by the spirit of generosity in North Texas. This newsletter reflects just a few of the ways that you choose to support Resource Center's clients and the communities we impact. From groups who held canned food drives that helped stock the food pantry to volunteers who served a Thanksgiving lunch to more than 100 clients, we are grateful for the gifts of time and talent that enrich lives in our community.

Regards, Cece

HEALTH: HOLIDAY NUTRITION PROGRAM SUPPORT

The holiday season is when Resource Center counts on your generosity the most. Demand for the Center's nutrition programs-the pantry and weekday hot meals-increases in November and December. Combine that with seasonal product shortages of protein items, and it can be a challenging time of year for the Center's over 1,900 clients who depend on the nutrition programs to help keep their HIV virus in check. Community groups, employee resource groups and everyday people have brought the Center canned meats, vegetables and fruits to help stock the food pantry. Also, we value and appreciate the groups who volunteered in the nutrition programs in November: Texas Instruments, Western Governor's University and the Lost Souls RFC.

COMMUNITY: WOMEN EVENT

Center CEO Cece Cox was one of the presenters November 8 at "Our Bodies. Our Spirits. Our Selves: A Celebration of Women," a women's' rights symposium held by Hope for Peace and Justice at the Cathedral of Hope. Cox's workshop, "The Next Chapter for LGBT Equality," was co-presented by Kate Kendell, the executive director of the National Center for Lesbian Rights. The workshop examined a variety of issues concerning the LGBT community beyond marriage equality, such as services for youth and seniors. It was also a demonstration of the Center's partnerships with both local and national organizations to provide transformative education and advocacy for the LGBT community of North Texas.

ADVOCACY: LGBT HEALTHCARE BILL OF RIGHTS & ACA ENROLLMENT

As the year winds down, your health is on the Center's mind. Are you considering your health insurance options? Not sure where to start or have questions? Resource Center is teaming up with Out2Enroll to provide the help you need to find affordable health insurance that's right for you and your family. The Center will host trained health care assisters each Saturday, Dec. 6, 13, 20 from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. to answer your questions and help you enroll or re-enroll in affordable coverage. No sign-up necessary - just stop by to learn more! We're also partnering with LGBT Healthlink to inform you what your rights are in healthcare. Click here for more information.

TOAST TO LIFE: SAT., FEB. 28, 2014 - 8-11 p.m.

What do you get when you mix a bunny with magic? You get "Voodoo on the Trinity," the theme of the Center's annual Toast To Life fundraiser. Celebrity DJ Lady Bunny will entertain the attendees at the 17th annual event, February 28 at The Empire Room, 1225 N. Riverfront Blvd. For more information, visit Toast To Life website here.

GIVE: SAM SANTIAGO IS MAKING A DIFFERENCE 365 DAYS A YEAR!

"I'm thrilled to be a new 365 Club member, and to support to important LGBT and HIV programs and services at Resource Center. They make it very easy to give." Sam Santiago

As a 365 Club member, your monthly contribution provides predictable and reliable income to help sustain Center programs such as nutrition programs, HIV/STD testing, dental clinic, counseling, Youth First and Gray Pride.

Join the 365 Club and receive an invitation for an exclusive behind the scenes tour from Center CEO, Cece Cox, and discounts on Center events!

Click here or contact Dean S. Wilson at dwilson@myresourcecenter.org, or 214-540-4424 to add your name to the list of community leaders making a difference in the lives of our clients every day!

SAVE THE DATE

Upcoming Resource Center events.

Red Ribbon Bash: Thurs., Dec. 4 - 6:30-9:30 p.m. at Hotel Lumen. Click below for tickets and details.

Open House: Mon., Dec. 15 - 5:30-7:30 p.m. Click below for details.

Gaybingo: Sat., Jan. 17, 2015 - Tickets on sale soon.

Check the Center's website calendar here for a complete list of events.

ABOUT RESOURCE CENTER:
Resource Center, a United Way Agency, operates the John Thomas LGBT Community Center, Nelson-Tebedo Clinic, Youth First and United Black Ellument. For over 30 years, the Center has provided programs of interest to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community members and critical assistance to people living with HIV and AIDS and their families. The programs of Resource Center promote understanding of the LGBT community and aim to eradicate the spread of HIV and AIDS.

MISSION:
Resource Center is a trusted leader that empowers the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) communities and all people affected by HIV through improving health and wellness, strengthening families and communities and providing transformative education and advocacy.

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