ToyAtlanta’sParty Favorite Holiday Fundraiser
By Mikkel Hyldebrandt
The Toy Party & Silent Auction by For The Kid In All Of Us (FTK) is a staple of holiday celebrations in Atlanta, where guests not only enjoy a spectacular party but also make a difference in the lives of children. It’s a win-win—especially for the kids in metro Atlanta. This year, the goal of collecting and raising funds for 8.000 toys for metro Atlanta kids may be the highest-ever, but for FTK, it only raises the ambition to put on an even better party. We spoke to board President Brian Isbell-Garcia about what the organization is doing to meet this goal and what guests can expect at this year’s Toy Party.
Last year, you celebrated the Toy Parth anniversary with a smashing celebration. How is the planning of Atlanta’s most popular holiday party going?
and as their needs grow, ours do too.
The Board of Directors is busy putting the finishing touches on what promises to be another great Toy Party & Silent Auction. The last two weeks is where all the planning and months of prep work come together to create Atlanta’s favorite holiday fundraiser.
FTK’s mission is to collect toys and raise funds for toys for children in need throughout metro Atlanta. This year, your partner organizations have asked for the most toys ever. Can you talk a little bit about that?
The needs in our community are greater than ever before. We’re doing all we can to fill the requests, but we can’t do it alone. It takes generous donations from local businesses and all those who attend our Toy Party with an unwrapped toy in hand to make what we do possible.
Why do you think there is a bigger ask for toys this year?
We work with nearly 20 beneficiaries with strong and deep connections in the metro Atalanta community,
With that ambitious goal in mind, what strategies do you plan to implement at this year’s party to raise funds?
One of the highlights is our new Giving Tree, where guests can purchase ornaments to directly support the kids. We also have some exciting items in this year’s silent auction and are planning for another sold-out Toy Party. We are also raising funds at smaller events in November and December with partners like Piedmont Bark, Trina Turk, the Atlanta Eagle.
What else can attendees expect at this year’s party?
We will be joined by both the women’s and gay men’s chorus, as well as Santa and Mrs. Claus, DJ Brian Rojas, a variety show of drag talents provided by Phoenix Entertainment, and other performers. There will be photo experiences, food from Zest Catering, and drinks from Svedka Vodka and United Distributors, and our silent auction, which is always a good way to make a donation and pick up a special gift you can’t get anywhere else.
Tickets are divided into general admission and VIP – can you elaborate on the two ticket types?
Tickets for the event are available in two tiers: General Admission and VIP. The VIP experience includes an exclusive hour from 5–6 pm, featuring delectable hors d’oeuvres and special entertainment. VIP guests will also enjoy access to premium liquor at all bars, a designated VIP section in the main ballroom, and a curated swag bag. General Admission ticket holders will have access to unlimited drinks (excluding premium liquor) and all the event’s entertainment. For those who have already purchased General Admission tickets, there is an option to upgrade to VIP, provided it hasn’t sold out.
You also have an opportunity to win a VIP upgrade to the party this year –how do you get in on that?
We’ll be announcing two winners on our Facebook page on November 30. All you need to do to enter is purchase a general admission ticket, follow our new Facebook page, and like and share the contest Facebook post.
It takes a lot of people to transform the Biltmore Ballrooms into a winter wonderland, and we couldn’t do it without a lot of volunteers. Anyone interested in helping us behind the scenes can email us at volunteers@forthekid.org.
So, what if you can’t attend the Toy Party but still want to help reach the goal of collecting 8.000 toys?
There are many ways you can help us reach our goal this year. Of course, cash donations are always welcome, but you can also buy and send a toy
from our Amazon Wish List or donate to our silent auction. Just visit forthekid.org/support for more details.
You also have an immediate need for volunteers at the Toy Party throughout the day and evening of the event. How do you get to be a volunteer?
The Toy Party is FTK’s biggest fundraiser of the year, but it’s not the last – what else do you have planned for the holidays?
We’re teaming up with the Atlanta Eagle for Birdcage Bingo every Wednesday night in December. Additionally, MAAP is hosting a toy drive during their monthly gathering on Saturday, December 7, at the Wylie Hotel. On Saturday, December 14, More to Love will present their annual Gag the Grinch event at the Eagle, with all proceeds benefiting For the Kid.
Looking ahead to 2025 – any exciting plans for the new year?
We’re gearing up for an exciting start to the new year! Our annual board interviews will take place at the end of January and into early February. We’re always on the lookout for passionate new board members to join us in creating magic for these incredible kids. If you’re interested in making a difference, visit forthekid.org/board to learn more!
Anything else you’d like to add?
I’d like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the community for 21 years of incredible support. Thanks to your generosity, we’ve been able to provide over 80,000 toys and 59,000 backpacks to children and families across the greater Atlanta Metro area. I’d also like to express my deepest appreciation to all the volunteers who have given their time and energy over the years—none of this would be possible without you. Thank you for helping us make a difference!
Even if You’ve Been Naughty
It’s Nice To Have a New Gay Doc In Town
By Brian McGuire
This holiday season, Atlanta welcomes its very own Nick—not Saint Nick with a sleigh and reindeer, but Dr. Nick Church with a stethoscope and a mission to make healthcare truly personal. Dr. Church, founder of Somerset Medical, is the embodiment of “nice” care: thoughtful, inclusive, and tailored to the individual. We caught up with Dr. Church recently and learned more about him and his new practice.
So, tell us a bit about yourself as a person and a doctor
I’m Dr. Nicholas Church, founder of Somerset Medical, a new concierge medical practice in Atlanta, steps from the Atlanta Beltline. My husband and I have lived in Atlanta for over 20 years and we love being part of the vibrant and diverse LGBTQ+ community here. We are dog dads to Oliver, Alfred, and Oscar.
As a physician, I’m passionate about fostering meaningful relationships with my patients and creating a healthcare experience that prioritizes respect, honesty, and simplicity in an environment where my patients feel safe and truly seen and heard as the interesting, wonderful people they are.
Congratulations on starting your new medical practice. Please provide some background on why you wanted to start and your concept for it.
Starting Somerset Medical has been a dream of mine for many years. After witnessing the frustrations many people feel with traditional healthcare—long wait times, rushed appointments, and impersonal care—I wanted to build something different. Somerset Medical focuses on a concierge model, meaning fewer patients, more time for personalized care, and the ability to truly address each patient’s unique needs. It’s about creating a relationship-driven practice where patients feel heard and valued.
What will your new medical practice specialize in?
Somerset Medical offers primary care services with an emphasis on preventative care and holistic wellness. The concierge model allows me to work closely with patients to manage chronic conditions, improve overall health, and address concerns in a proactive way. While we serve patients from all walks of life, we’re particularly committed to supporting the LGBTQ+ community with affirming, inclusive care.
Why do you think it is important for the LGBTQ+ community to have an LGBTQ+ doctor?
Representation matters in all aspects of life, and healthcare is no exception. Having an LGBTQ+ doctor means patients can feel more comfortable sharing their experiences without fear of judgment or misunderstanding. I understand the unique health challenges our community faces, from disparities in care to concerns around gender identity and sexual health. My goal is to create a safe and welcoming space where everyone can feel empowered to take control of their health.
If I want to have you as my doctor, what are the next steps?
It’s simple! Visit our website at somersetmedical.com to learn more about Somerset Medical and book a virtual Meet & Greet with me. These sessions are a great opportunity to get to know me, ask any questions, and learn how our concierge care model works. I’d love to connect and discuss how we can support your healthcare journey.
Holiday Gift Guide
Treat the Ones on Your Nice List
By Mikkel Hyldebrandt
The holidays are the perfect time to shower your favorite people with a little extra love—and the perfect gift! Whether it’s your fabulous bestie, your amazing partner, or that special someone who makes your heart skip a beat, we’ve got you covered with thoughtful ideas to make their season extra bright.
Elevate Your Daily Routines
A luxe experience for your hands and house! Fine Italian fragrances blended with plantpowered from new-comer luxury brand Preston Lane.
Deluxe Hand Set $64 from onprestonlane.com
Fashionable Accent
A pair of socks will not only keep your feet warm but also be a fashionable accent to a perfect outfit—like these peach-colored crew socks from Stance.
Icon Crew Socks, $14.99 from stance.com
Scent Your Drive
Intelligent, clean, and premium scent for your car. Clean and safe ingredients combined with smart features like automatic start and stop to elevate your car’s scentscape.
Pura Car Pro scent diffuser $65 from Pura.com
Photos by: Russ Bowen-Youngblood
Put a Necklace On It
Jewelry for men has become part of the fashion scape – and with a classic statement piece from Caintè, you will exude timeless elegance.
Original Necklace, $86 from cainte.com
Man’s Purry Friend
Cat furniture may be an unwanted necessity, but with Mau, you get stylish pieces that won’t detract from your style game.
Mau Cat Tree, $289 from maupets.com
Feel the Tension
An unforgettable experience is one of the best presents you can give – and tickets to Kylie’s Tension Tour that comes to Atlanta’s State Farm Arena on April 11 is one of those unforgettable moments!
Tickets to Kylie Tension Tour are available from several ticket vendors, Like StubHub.
Personalized Fragrance
You can buy Le Labo online, but you can gift the full experience at one of their ‘in-person’ labs, including a personal scent guide and custom label.
Le Labo Fragrance starting at $107
Cuddle Up
On those cold winter night a good blanket is a necessity – and why not make it big and cuddly enough for two?
Unhide Marsmallow Blanket (90” x 108”) $489 from unhide.us
Your Nex Bag
The Hawaii Edition Weekender bag from Nex is not just one of the most stylish ways to pack; it is also practical, with intelligent features like a luggage sleeve and a toiletry kit. Nex Weekender - Hawaii Edition, $170 from meetnex.com
The 2024 Atlanta Santa Speedo Run
By Mikkel Hyldebrandt
Last year, Joining Hearts became the beneficiary of the well-known Speedo Run. Thisyear, they are back at it, planning a fun, skivvy-clad run through the streets of Atlanta.David talked to Joining Hearts Board President Jerry Henderson about lessons learnedfrom last year, what to expect, and fundraising goals.
This is the second year Joining Hearts is the beneficiary of the Speedo Run. For those Who don’t know about this cheeky holiday tradition, what is the Speedo Run?
The mission of the Atlanta Santa Speedo Run is to raise funds for those less fortunate through the support of local charitable service organizations while providing a fun, non-competitive athletic event that brings people together to celebrate their community. Joining Hearts, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that raises awareness and funds to support prevention, care, and housing assistance to those impacted by HIV/AIDS in Atlanta, was asked to take the helm to continue the tradition due to our long history in making a difference in Atlanta.
In preparation for this year’s run, what lessons have you learned from last year?
We have learned that we need to partner with local businesses and acquire more sponsors for next year.
This may be a fun holiday celebration, but it actually raises funds for Joining Heart’s mission to raise awareness and funds for prevention, care, and housing assistance to those affected by HIV/AIDS in Atlanta. Do you have any fundraising goals set for this year’s event?
Our goal for this year is to streamline the process more to make it more efficient and seamless for the user. In addition, we are trying to raise $5,000 more than last year’s total. as a baseline.
Photos by: Russ Bowen-Youngblood
The Speedo Run itself – do you have to wear a Speedo?
You can be as jolly and festive as your little heart desires. However, wearing a speedo is not a requirement for participating.
Are there other ways (for those who don’t want to run scantilyclad through the streets of Atlanta to support and donate to Joining Hearts?
Yes, visit joininghearts.org and select the DONATE button to donate in support of our mission or throughout the year by signing up to be a Patron to attend all our JH-sponsored events for free that are included at your level. More information can be found on our website.
Where would you sign up to participate in the Speedo Run?
You can sign up via our website for the Atlanta Santa Speedo Run via atlantasantaspeedorun.org/register.
Anything else you would like to add?
Stay tuned for upcoming events for year 38 to be released soon or get involved.
This year’s Santa Speedo Run is on Saturday, December 7, 2024. The route starts at Politan Row in Colony Square, proceeds down 14th into Piedmont Park, and circles back to Politan Row. Registration opens at 1:00 pm, the run begins at 2:00 pm, and the awards ceremony is at 2:30 pm.
BARS & CLUBS MIDTOWN
BLAKE’S ON THE PARK blakesontheparkatlanta.com 227 10th St NE
BULLDOGS 893 Peachtree St NE
FRIENDS NEIGHBORHOOD BAR friendsonponce-atl.com 736 Ponce De Leon Ave NE
MY SISTER’S ROOM mysistersroom.com 66 12th St NE
X MIDTOWN xmidtown.com 990 Piedmont Ave NE
THE T modeltatlanta.com 465 Boulevard SE
CHESHIRE
HERETIC hereticatlanta.com 2069 Cheshire Bridge Road
BJ ROOSTERS bjroosters.com 2043 Cheshire Bridge Road NE
WESTSIDE
MARQUETTE 868 Joseph E. Boone Blvd NW
840ATL 840 Joseph E. Boone Blvd NW
ANSLEY
A
ATLANTA EAGLE 1492 Piedmont Ave NE
FELIX’S 1510 Piedmont Ave NE
THE HIDEAWAY 1544 Piedmont Ave NE
MIXX mixxatlanta.com 1492 Piedmont Ave NE
OSCAR’S oscarsatlanta.com 1510 Piedmont Ave NE
WOOFS woofsatlanta.com 494 Plasters Ave NE
TRIPPS fb: tripps-bar 1931 Piedmont Cir NE
EAST ATLANTA, GRANT PARK & EDGEWOOD
MARY’S marysatlanta.com 1287 Glenwood Ave SE
SISTER LOUISA’S CHURCH sisterlouisaschurch. com 466 Edgewood Ave SE
DINING MIDTOWN
CASA ALMENARA 991 Piedmont Ave NE casa-almenara.com
OLIVE BISTRO olivebistro.com 1050 Juniper St NE #4
LA HACIENDA lahaciendamidtown. com 900 Monroe Dr NE
TUK TUK THAI FOOD LOFT TUKTUKATL.COM 1745 Peachtree Rd NW
DEKALB
LIPS ATLANTA atldragshow.com 3011 Buford Hwy NE
GCB & PLEASURES brushstrokesatlanta. com
1510-D Piedmont Ave. NE FITNESS
MIDTOWN
URBAN BODY FITNESS
urbanbody tness. com
500 Amsterdam Ave N
CHESHIRE GRAVITEE FITNESS graviteeatl.com 2201 Faulkner Rd NE
RETAIL
MIDTOWN
BARKING LEATHER AFTER DARK barkingleather.com 1510 Piedmont Ave NE
CHESHIRE
SOUTHERN NIGHTS VIDEO 2205 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE ANSLEY
BOY NEXT DOOR MENSWEAR boynextdoormenswear.com 1000 Piedmont Ave NE, Ste A
SPAS/BATHS ADULT
FLEX SPA exspas.com 76 4th St NW
Photos by: Russ Bowen-Youngblood
We all have those moments of ‘wait, did they just say that?’ Lucky for you, we compile the best of the best right here on this page. Want to join in on the b*tch session? Submit your own nuggets to info@davidatlanta.com.
Oooh sorry, I thought EOD meant the End of December! My bad. Sending now.
I’m scared to go to therapy because what if they fix me and I’m not funny anymore?
My Thanksgiving condensed: Auntie asked, ‘Isn’t that your third plate?’ I replied, ‘Isn’t that your third husband?’
I realize I have been microdosing anksgiving every day of the year by overeating and arguing with everyone.
Took an edible and then tried to blow out my Alexa like a candle.
I wish I lacked common sense. Yʼall seem so happy.
Trying to find out if this girl from high school got divorced. I’m incredibly busy right now.
I just realized I’ve done molly more than I’ve tried co age cheese.
