QNotes, Dec. 5-19, 2014

Dec. 5-18 . 2014

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inside

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news & features

arts. entertainment. news. views.

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Center, other orgs challenged News Notes: Regional Briefs News Notes: U.S./World Briefs Annual survey: growth for groups Organization finances Major donors favor two groups Time Out Youth grows

a&e / life&style 14 14 16 18

Jane’s World Tell Trinity Playing the Field Q Events Calendar

opinions & views 4 Editor’s Note

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Seasons end for local LGBT sports teams

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Time Out Youth continues growth

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qnotes connect Dec. 5-18, 2015 Vol 29 No 16

arts. entertainment. news. views. goqnotes.com twitter.com/qnotescarolinas facebook.com/qnotescarolinas

contributors this issue

Paige Braddock, Matt Comer, Jon Hoppel, Lainey Millen, Trinity

front page

Graphic Design by Matt Comer & Lainey Millen Illustration: Christmas Tree ©TrueMitra

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Mission:

The focus of QNotes is to serve the LGBT and straight ally communities of the Charlotte region, North Carolina and beyond, by featuring arts, entertainment, news and views content in print and online that directly enlightens, informs and engages the readers about LGBT life and social justice issues.

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editor’s note

by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com

Context and takeaway: Funding the local movement For non-profit groups, one of the keys to success, among many others, is its fundraising ability. Most non-profits cannot thrive, and many will not survive, without the possibility of increased funds, donor strength and, more importantly, a diversity of revenue streams.

It’s a dog-eat-dog world out there, too.

Many non-profits compete for the same donors, the same grants and the same corporate sponsorships.

So, it’s natural that debates over how our community spends its money and prioritizes the issues which receive funding trickle up among non-profit staffers, clients, donors, activists and community members. Here in Charlotte, one debate has been the extent to which local money is spent on national, as opposed to local, causes.

It comes and goes depending on season, usually hitting its peak controversy right around when the Human Rights Campaign holds its annual North Carolina Gala in Charlotte each February.

Several weeks ago, I was asked to be a panelist in a forum exploring questions over the community’s present and future. I was there to share my personal perspectives and opinions, independent from the newspaper. I said at the event that I believed it was time for local Charlotteans to eschew their annual giving at the HRC gala and to invest more heavily in local causes, especially in the face of such increased need and some challenge here in our city. To me, it’s more a question of priorities, not worth or value. National groups like HRC do good work. They have an important role in the national LGBT movement and their staffers in D.C. and field organizers across the country are committed to the cause. But national groups like HRC aren’t committed in the same way locals can be and often are when it comes to working on local issues. It’s the nature of the game; no national organization can be attuned to every need of every local community and they don’t, by and large, have the capacity to swoop in and assist with local causes, even if that assistance is justified or sorely needed. That’s why, personally, I think it’s important for us to invest locally.

No one else other than locals are going to do the hard, backbreaking and emotional work it takes to create a strong local community.

If you’ve lived in Charlotte long enough or been involved in the local LGBT community, you already know what happened next. There are just some things one doesn’t say publicly in Charlotte.

Criticizing HRC is among them. And while I certainly have critiques on how the organization could better serve it’s national community, my perspective on the local-national funding question isn’t so much a criticism as it is a question of priorities and a call for local conversation.

So, I was glad to have had several conversations with multiple people in the days following that forum. One asked about the level of giving among the community, hypothesizing that the overwhelming majority of LGBT people donate nothing to local causes. Another person and I discussed the possibility that many who give to national groups like HRC very often contribute to local causes as well. For many, giving nationally or locally isn’t an either-or proposition — it’s both-and.

All that is true.

In this print edition, we run our annual Community Assessment Survey, a review of

several local and regional non-profit groups’ annual tax filings and other financial information. The data we report is fairly straight-forward, but, here, I want to provide some context and personal takeaway on the data.

Donation rates: In the review, we revisit some numbers we reported last year. We’d asked non-profits to tell us how many individual donors they had giving any amount to their organizations. That number came back to over 4,000 for 10 organizations that chose to disclose that information. There’s two ways to analyze that figure. A 2011 survey of Charlotte showed more than 240,000 potential LGBT people and potential straight allies. A 2012 Gallup poll found North Carolina’s LGBT adult population stands at 3.3 percent of the total population. These estimates aren’t perfect, and they won’t be until the U.S. Census Bureau decides to count all LGBT people (right now, they just count couples). But they do give us a benchmark to measure the rate of local giving — anywhere from 1.7 percent to 17 percent of possible community members (the former including allies) gave to the 10 organizations we reviewed. The latter number is larger and I’d argue more significant, but it’s still far from a majority. It should be noted that these figures don’t take into account the full breadth of the community and data from all community organizations. It also doesn’t count people whose donations might not be recorded — folks who dropped a few unrecorded dollars in a donation bucket, for example, or those who have little-to-no money to give and instead spend their “donation” in the form of volunteered personal talents or time.

Local v. national: The conversations following that forum sparked an interesting and valid question: Who are our major donors and what organizations do they support? So, we undertook an effort to get a glimpse, however small, of what the local major donor community looks like here in LGBT Charlotte. The resulting numbers are revealing, and you can read the results of our inquiries on page 11. It’s worth noting that a small, but not insignificant, minority of major donors contributing at the $500 level and above gave to more than one organization.

Most split their major gifts between national and local causes — 66 percent included at least one gift to an organization with a national mission or focus and one gift to an organization with a local mission or focus. And all told, at least 43 percent of the estimated money raised and represented by the donors we studied went directly to local causes.

These estimates confirm what many have said — folks who have the money to support national organizations like the Human Rights Campaign also very often support local organizations as well. We set our major donor benchmark at $500, but going through the lists of individual donors, we noticed that a far larger portion were also giving at levels as low as $50, $100 or $250.

Locals taking care of their own: Some readers might see concern in the amount of major donor funds flowing into national causes.

But our annual non-profit review this year finds that at least some local and regional organizations are outperforming national trends. Now in its fifth year, the non-profit review was able to look back over six years of non-profit tax filings.

We reviewed five organizations included in our annual non-profit survey since it began.

Many of them are experiencing growth, with some seeing as much as double-digit percentage growth in their revenues each year. These same groups, by and large, receive a significant portion (at least a third for four of them) of their revenue from individual donors — a possible sign that local contributors, whether major donors or small donors, certainly want to see local organizations thrive.

Gaps and the need for more study: Our review of major donor data did not include one of the local community’s largest groups, Time Out Youth Center — arguably one among several shining local non-profit success stories in recent years. We couldn’t find a publicly available list of the group’s major individual donors and it wasn’t disclosed to us. (Note: These sets of data are not usually open to public inspection; organizations have the right to release them as they and their donors see fit.) In the future, I hope this set of data can be included if we or another media outlet or organization explores similar funding questions or research again. My hypothesis is that the portion of major donors giving to two or more groups — 14 percent in our research published here — will rise if Time Out Youth’s data is included.

Secondly, we believe our review of the 10 organizations’ major donor data is a representative sample of local giving. We included national and local groups, organizations with large budgets and those with small budgets and organizations with a variety of purposes and missions. We’ve published our methodology along with the article. Still, this question could use more research and study. We also admit we’re journalists and newspaper folks.

While our staff has the experience and knowledge to analyze some giving and financial data, we’re not hardened, trained financial analysts, CPAs or accountants. We challenge those with greater skills to take up similar questions and research projects for local causes, similar to national studies done by research staff at groups like the Movement Advancement Project and Funders for LGBTQ Issues.

Finally, we want to issue a warning against using the research we’ve collected in order to draw unwarranted conclusions not backed up by the evidence as collected and presented.

We know opinions and perspectives on a variety of issues intersecting with these questions quite often run strong and deep, but the data must be our ultimate guide. : :

Errata An event listing in the Nov. 21 print edition’s calendar incorrectly listed the date for the Twirl to the World event. It is scheduled for Dec. 13. Please see our updated event listing on page 18.

A news brief in the Nov. 21 print edition listed Dec. 4 as the date for the LGBT Center of Raleigh’s SAGE veterans dinner. Organizers later updated the event date to Dec. 7, 2-4 p.m.

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in focus: non-profits

LGBT center, other orgs navigate challenging year Center moving forward with re-prioritized goals

by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com

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eaders with the LGBT Community Center of Charlotte and other local organizations have faced a challenging year — staring down controversy, financial woes, compliance issues and more. But new center board members and those with other organizations say they’re moving toward bright futures.

Engaging the community and learning the ropes of non-profit management will guide their way, they’ve said.

At the center, new Programs Chair Tamika Lewis and Grants Chair Ashley Love said the organization will be better able to take a new direction now that it has a strategic plan.

The group has also started a new community needs assessment they’re calling “1,000 Conversations.”

The plan, Lewis said, provides the center a “clear direction of what it is we want to do.”

The accompanying needs assessment will provide the feedback needed for the center to rebuild and rebrand.

“We want to make sure that [the center] is something of value to each and every person in this community,” said Lewis. “We have this opportunity to have conversations with people. … That’s why were doing our 1,000 Conversations project. … Let’s have a conversation. What do you think is important? Here’s what we think is important. It’s about recreating the culture of community.”

The center has been among the most beleaguered local groups this year. Consistent brushes with leadership troubles, alleged financial mismanagement and fundraising woes have twice threatened to nearly shut down the center this year. Lewis and Love know the history, but feel it sometimes overshadows what they and other board members have said is a remarkable amount of progress in a short period of time. Still, they don’t want to ignore it and will use it to acknowledge past mistakes, rebuild relationships and work toward collaborations and partnerships with other groups.

Their new strategic plan and forthcoming community needs assessment will draw on the lessons of the past, they said. They’re also looking at past documents, including an original needs assessment compiled when the center

first opened, found in former local leader Dan Kirsch’s archived papers at Duke University.

“We found it. We want to review it,” said Love. “What was done then? What worked then and what didn’t work then? We want to use that history in a positive way.”

The group has also shifted focus and priorities. Their lease in the current space ends this month and they’ll vacate, but finding another physical location has dropped down on the center’s list of goals.

“Our goal is to pay back any debt right now,” said Love. “We’ve pushed space down the list. It’s not realistic for us right now. In the future — maybe in a year, maybe in two years — we’d be excited for a space, but right now the goal is to pay back any debt.”

The temporary virtual situation will allow the center to refocus its energies, leaders said.

It’s something other centers have done, too.

Terry Stone is executive director of CenterLink, a national association of LGBT community centers. He has advised and offered feedback to Charlotte’s center board.

Virtual centers don’t work over the long term, Stone said, but they do allow “for a few months trying to get yourself back on your feet.”

“Considering their cash flow and financial situation, I thought it would be somewhat difficult for them to rent enough space,” Stone said he advised the group. “It was very important that they fill reserves before making big cash outlays. … Wait three or four months before moving into a space.”

Other centers across the country have faced challenges in the past, too, Stone said. In the last couple years, one center had experienced loss of leadership and community trust, issues similar to those in Charlotte.

“In the last couple of years, some very strong, recognized and trusted community leaders who had been around for some of the first early years of the center came back together,” Stone said. “They worked closely together to get the center back on financial footing.”

Like Charlotte’s center, that group had also faced problems with employment taxes. The new leaders got the problems sorted out and kept community members updated on their progress.

“The community got back and reinvested,” Stone said. “[Leaders] kept them informed. …

They have people showing up to events and excited again. I know that it can happen. It takes strong community investment and trust and that new group of people doing what they say they’re going to do.”

Lewis and Love hope they can replicate just such a rebuilding effort in Charlotte.

“This is a process. We’re not trying to dismantle something and pop a new one up in its place the next day,” said Lewis. “We actually want to do the work to make sure this is something the community is proud of. When someone googles ‘Charlotte’ and ‘LGBTQ,’ they should see the center and the happenings here and pictures on the website that reflect a community that’s proud of its center and the services it provides.”

The group’s strategic plan, available on its website, outlines a variety of programs and services center leaders will explore as their community needs assessment progresses. Some of the ideas include services for transgender and gender-non-conforming persons, elder services, physical health and fitness programs and educational, arts and cultural seminars and events. The group also hopes it can find a way to re-establish the types of services offered by the LGBTQ Law Center, which closed earlier in the fall.

Youth services and those for other underserved and under-represented populations are also among the ideas.

“There are stories behind a lot of the program and service ideas,” said Love, who wants to “service a population that has not been heard in the past.”

Love added: “There’s been more talk about LGBT youth homelessness. We have such a passion for that right now.” Love dreams that the center could one day possibly provide beds for homeless LGBT youth.

“Just seeing different faces in and out of a space and providing what they need,” Love said. “I get excited about the engagement and just being there for the community and being a support system.”

see Center on 19

Dec. 5-18 . 2014

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news notes: carolinas compiled by Lainey Millen & Matt Comer

Gay dad joins council DURHAM — Activist Henry Amador was recently added as a member of Family Equality Council’s Southern Advisory Council.

Amador said that he was selected “because of the advocacy work I have been doing on behalf of my organization DADsquared. Family Equality Council’s message is completely in-line with much of what I believe in, ensuring rights and protections for all LGBTQ families and, most importantly, in community building.”

Amador and his husband Joel Batten, along with Helena Cragg, are the driving force behind the development of the LGBTQ Center of Durham.

A certified holistic life coach and specialist in advanced life skills, Amador also pens DADsquared, a parenting blog and runs a Meetup for gay fathers in the Triangle. He and his husband were the first same-sex couple to jointly adopt a child in Broward County, Fla. —setting legal precedence, the organization said.

The council shared, “His clear leadership skills, belief in service and passion for building and strengthening the LGBTQ community will certainly aid us with working towards a better world for all our children, as well as connecting and securing our families in the South.”

“My family just recently went to our first Family Week in P’town [Provincetown] this summer. Family Week is hosted by FEC and is a yearly, week-long gathering,” Amador said.

He added, “We met many families that only see other families like theirs once a year, I think many of us forget that we do not all live in Blue areas with lots of gay families around. That’s why building community and connecting families is one of my missions in life. No child, growing up with sam- gendered parents, should ever feel alone.”

Last year he hosted the Triangle’s first-ever gathering to celebrate International Family Equality Day and on May 3, 2015, he plans on making that event larger, trying to surpass the 50 families that attended in 2014.

With this new affiliation, he feels that his work for LGBT rights takes on new legs, having the resources of FEC behind him.

“Building the gay dad community in the triangle will never stop being a main focus, after all it’s what I live right?” he concluded.

Amador’s family made the November/December 2014 cover of Gay Parent LGBT magazine.

It can be read at gayparenting.com. info: familyequality.org.

— L.M.

Charlotte Forum slated

CHARLOTTE — A community forum on marriage, social justice and intersectional organizing will be held on Dec. 17, 7 p.m., at the Levine Museum of the New South, 200 E. 7th St. Focus for the discussion will be “Beyond Marriage Equality: Social Justice, Intersectionality & Southern Organizing for LGBTQ Communities.”

Dialogue will be part of the evening’s program as community members and local panelists participate in a social justice interchange.

Discussion will center around the value of creating an intersectional framework for collective organizing that strengthens Charlotte and the region. Panelists will share their own experiences, as well as complex struggles of LGBT work on the back end of marriage equality.

Racial, ethnic, gender, sexual, class, age, ability, social action and other identities consideration is taken into account when developing new strategy formation that leads toward full inclusion, equity and safety.

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The event is free. It is sponsored by Campus Pride and the Freedom Center for Social Justice. info: campuspride.org. fcsj.org.

— L.M.

Non-discrimination updates considered CHARLOTTE — The Charlotte City Council will move forward with further considerations on LGBT-inclusive protections in public accommodations and other city ordinances after hearing a proposal at their dinner meeting on Nov. 24.

Scott Bishop, chair of the Mecklenburg LGBT Political Action Committee (MeckPAC), led the presentation on behalf of the ad-hoc Charlotte Non-Discrimination Ordinance Coalition.

“We feel it is time Charlotte keeps up with its peers around the country,” Bishop told Council. “We feel all residents should be treated fairly and equally. We feel arbitrary discrimination is detrimental to the peace process and welfare of the city. Updating these ordinances will help strengthen this community with an atmosphere of respect and inclusivity.”

The coalition is comprised of several groups including Equality North Carolina, the Charlotte Business Guild, Genderlines, LGBT Democrats of Mecklenburg County, the ACLUCharlotte and the Human Rights Campaign.

The coalition wants to add several new protected classes — sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and marital or family status — to four of the city’s ordinances: Public Accommodations, Commercial NonDiscrimination, Charlotte Mecklenburg Community Relations Committee and Passenger Vehicles for Hire.

The city currently prohibits discrimination against its own employees on the basis of sexual orientation and, as noted in employment policies, on the basis of “actual or perceived gender as expressed through dress, appearance or behavior.” Those protections do not extend to employees in the private sector and the proposal presented on Nov. 24 would not attempt to alter laws on private employment.

The city also offers benefits to same-gender domestic partners and spouses.

If approved, the updates to the four ordinances under consideration would discourage anti-LGBT discrimination in passenger vehicles, by businesses offering “goods, services, facilities … [or] accommodations” to members of the public.

“The Community Relations Committee has been working with Scott Bishop and MeckPAC several months now on this issue,” said Willie Ratchford, executive director of the Community Relations. “It is my sense that a vast majority of the Community Relations Committee are supportive of City Council approving this language to ordinances, policies and procedures.”

The state of North Carolina does not currently protect LGBT people from discrimination in employment, public accommodations or other areas.

— M.C.

HRC-North-Carolina-Gala-Fellowships---SilentAuction.html?soid=1105542306254&aid= 2u4f4OfUygQ. hrccarolina.org/gala/auction.

— L.M.

Fellowship noms open

Military group names president

CHARLOTTE — The Human Rights Campaign North Carolina has announced that it is accepting fellowship nominations for its 2015 gala to be held on Feb. 21 at the Charlotte Convention Center.

For those LGBT and straight allies who would like to attend the gala, but have limited income, fellowships enable one to attend who otherwise could not do so without financial assistance.

Seekers must complete an application [missing word(s) here?] commitment to the HRC mission to build an America where LGBT families and individuals can be open, honest and safe at work, at home and in the community. Individuals must be a current resident of North Carolina with a willingness to volunteer for local HRC organizing and further outreach efforts. Additionally, applicants should show demonstration of one’s limited income status.

Fellowships will be granted on an ongoing basis until the designated allotment has been filled or until February 2015, whichever is sooner. Applications can be downloaded online.

The gala is also looking for silent auction items. The auction provides additional fundraising dollars for the gala. Donations of goods and services can range from furnishings, art, gift cards, professional services and more. For those items that are valued greater than $500, contributors are eligible for ad space in the program book at no additional cost. Email Chad Barringer and Glen Powell at silentauction@ hrccarolina.org or go online to donate. info: myemail.constantcontact.com/Call-for-2015-

Missing trans woman sought

SALISBURY — A transgender Rowan County woman, Elisha Walker, 20, has been missing since the end of October and despite some new clues, police and family say they’re no closer to finding her.

She is 20 years old, 5’8”, 120 pounds, with “light brown skin complexion,” according to law enforcement.

Walker has had no contact with her family or friends since Oct. 23. On Nov. 11, her mother reported her missing.

On Nov. 23, Walker’s burned out car was found in another county. The silver 2000 Pontiac Sunfire was badly damaged by fire when it was found near the town of Clinton, N.C., in Sampson County, about 45 minutes east of Fayetteville.

Investigators believe the car was intentionally set ablaze.

Sampson County Sheriff’s investigators are canvassing areas near where the vehicle was found.

The last time Walker might have been seen was on Oct. 30. At the time an officer spotted her car traveling in Salisbury. The tag number had been displayed on a homemade piece of paper.

The sheriff’s office says Walker has been known to travel to Durham and the Camp Lejune area, “but there are no known areas for certain at this time that [she] may be located in.”

Anyone with information on Walker or her location is asked to call Rowan County Sheriff’s Office Staff Sgt. Investigator Jason Owens at 704-216-8683.

— M.C.

Eastern FAYETTEVILLE — Ashley Broadway, the spouse of Fort Bragg-based Army officer Heather Mack, has been named president of the American Military Partner Association, a leading national organization for partners, spouses and families of U.S. LGBT servicemembers and veterans.

“I am truly honored and excited to lead such an incredible organization working to achieve full equality for LGBT service members, veterans, and their families,” Broadway said in a statement. “Whether stationed at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, or San Diego, California, our military families sacrifice so much for our nation’s freedoms. Behind every service member is a family who serves, and AMPA is committed now more than ever to strengthening and protecting our nation’s modern military families.”

Outgoing president and AMPA founder Stephen Peters praised Broadway’s leadership.

“I can think of no person more committed to our nation’s military families than Ashley Broadway,” Peters said in a release. “There is so much more work to be done to not only gain full equality for our nation’s LGBT military families, but to strengthen and support them as they serve our nation. From working to include sexual orientation and gender identity in the Defense Department’s non-discrimination policy, to making sure our LGBT veterans and their families receive the benefits they’ve earned, Ashley is the military spouse for the job.”

— M.C.

see News Notes on 9

news news notes: u.s./world. goqnotes.com/to/news

National Organization for Marriage’s funding drops by half According to analysis of the organization’s 2013 tax filings by HRC, NOM raised $5.1 million in 2013, dropping by over 50 percent since 2012. Just two donors accounted for more than half of the organization’s funding — further evidence that everyday Americans have little interest in furthering NOM’s extremist agenda.

In addition, the NOM Education Fund also dropped by nearly $3.5 million in funding — a drop of almost 70 percent since the previous year. NOM ended the year more than $2.5 million in debt.

“NOM should start figuring out that people aren’t willing to give their hard-earned money to an extremist agenda that’s going nowhere,” said Fred Sainz, HRC Vice President of Communications. “If I were Brian Brown, I’d be worried that my two or three megadonors are soon going to Brian Brown, National Organization for Marriage president. come to terms with the fact Photo Credit: Common Good, via Wikipedia. Licensed CC. that they’d largely be better off flushing money down the WASHINGTON, D.C. — The rapid toilet. Americans certainly aren’t buying what advancement of marriage equality from 19 NOM is selling, and it’s only a matter of time states to 35 in a matter of weeks has not before the trickle of money keeping the lights translated into financial success for an orgaon at NOM HQ dries up.” nization whose self-proclaimed sole purpose NOM made their 2013 990s available after is to “protect marriage and the faith commurepeatedly refusing to make them public follownities that sustain it.” ing their Nov. 17 deadline – a direct violation of The Human Rights Campaign reports federal law. that in a time when virtually every nightly In 2012, NOM ended the year in the red with newscast, political debate, even televiroughly a $2 million dollar deficit. Just three sion series delves into discussions about donors accounted for roughly two thirds of the marriage rights for gay and lesbian couples, organization’s funding. the beleaguered National Organization for — LGBTQ Nation (lgbtqnation.com), Marriage (NOM) can’t seem to raise enough a qnotes news partner money to cover its expenses.

HRC co-founder charged with felony sex abuse of minor Bean has been one of Oregon’s biggest PORTLAND, Ore. — A prominent gay rights Democratic donors and an influential figure in activist who co-founded the Human Rights gay rights circles in the state.

Campaign and the Victory Fund and his former He helped found two major national political boyfriend have been arrested on charges of groups, the Human sex abuse in a case inRights Campaign volving a 15-year-old boy. and the Gay and Terrance Bean, 66, Lesbian Victory was charged with two Fund, and has been a counts of third-degree major contributor for sodomy, a felony, and one several Democratic count of third-degree sex presidential canabuse, a misdemeanor, didates, including The Oregonian reports.

Barack Obama. He’s His former boyfriend, also a close friend of Kiah Loy Lawson, 25, is former Gov. Barbara accused of third-degree sodomy and third-degree Terrance Bean, left, and Kiah Lawson in booking Roberts.

Bean, who has sexual abuse. photos from the Multnomah County Sheriff’s been on the board Both Bean and Department. of directors of the Lawson are accused HRC since 1980, has taken a voluntary leave of of having a sexual encounter with the same absence from the HRC board until the issue is 15-year-old boy in a hotel in Eugene, Ore. last resolved, an HRC official told LGBTQ Nation on year. They had arranged the encounter with the Nov. 20. teen after meeting him via a website, investiga— LGBTQ Nation tors allege.

Dec. 5-18 . 2014

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goqnotes.com/to/news/non-profit-surveys/

in focus: non-profits

Growth for most local LGBT organizations, challenge for some Year-over-year data suggests strong local non-profit community

by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com

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for national organizations have seen more As in prior years, funds spent on occua Form 990. Founded in April 2014, it’s first ocal and regional LGBT non-profits have slight increases over the past few years. From pancy and salary expenses were mostly stable filing will be made next year. Hearts Beat as experienced mostly positive growth in 2011 to 2012, national organizations’ revenues and balanced. The highest salary expenses One was given the opportunity to voluntarily revenue and community support over rose by just four percent. From 2010 to 2011, were seen in organizations with larger staffs, disclose their 2014 financial information and did the past several years, according to data a double-digit 17 percent gain was seen, but all of which offer direct client services or so. Last year, qnotes made the same opportureviewed in qnotes’ fifth annual Community the year before that saw only a one percent have advocacy/organizing or policy staff. nity available to Charlotte Pride and Different Assessment Survey. increase from 2009 to 2010.

Occupancy expenses rose only slightly, often Roads Home, both of which filed their first The survey is designed to gauge communiIn contrast, many local and regional due to moves to larger locations prompted Forms 990 this year, which are included in this ty organizations’ financial health and measure Carolinas groups have seen significant doubleby increases in organizations’ capacities and year’s survey. their commitment to transparency. This year, digit percentage gains in the years since 2008, programs. Of the three community center-type Our first Community Assessment Survey in qnotes reviewed 18 non-profit organizations even during the Great Recession. organizations, the LGBT Community Center 2010 saw an historic showing of transparency. based in the Carolinas and doing the bulk of This growth might also suggest a stronger of Charlotte spent the largest share of its All but one of the 21 organizations asked to their work in the region. commitment on the part of local donors to expenses on occupancy rates. The group’s participate were able to disclose their Forms The data collected this year represents a support local organizations. Local groups in total expenses were $93,925, of which 50 990 and 17 voluntarily completed an in-depth full six years’ worth of financial filings for some the South must often rely on local donors for percent represented occupancy expenses. In survey requesting further organizational organizations after the newspaper was able to a great portion of their support. National philancontrast, the LGBT Center of Raleigh spent just information. Participation in the Community review two years of data in 2013. The informathropic tracking group Funders for LGBTQ 18 percent of its expenses on occupancy and Assessment Survey dropped in 2011, when 16 tion is drawn from organizations’ Forms 990, the Issues reports that the South receives end-of-year tax returns non-profit organizajust three to four percent of domestic tions are required to file with the Internal LGBT grant spending, despite being Revenue Service. home to more than a third of the naThe survey, inspired by similar initiatives tion’s LGBT adults. by other media and non-profit organiza412% The strongest performing of the tions, had three specific goals this year.

400 — five organizations reviewed was the As with past surveys, this year’s review LGBT Center of Raleigh. It’s first Form sought to document the general expenses — 990 filing for 2009 shows revenue of and revenue of non-profit organizations, as only $3,489. In 2010, its first full year well as their general occupancy and salary 300 — of operation, the group brought in expenses. For the first time, the survey also $69,557. Its growth has continued included a year-over-year review of five or — unimpeded since. Its Form 990 filing ganizations which have been included in the 200 — for 2013 shows $356,377 in revenue, newspaper’s annual review since it began a full 412 percent increase over 2010. in 2010. Finally, the survey also undertook an — 135% As the organization has grown, it’s effort to review major donor giving patterns 116% transitioned from volunteer staff to a among organizations based in or with a 100 — 68% part-time executive director and then significant local presence in the Charlotte — to its current full-time executive direcarea; see our accompanying story on page 11% tor, James Miller. The group has also -35% 11 for more.

0 — hired other staff and occupied three different office spaces, each increasIncreased transparency Equality NC LGBT Ctr LGBT Ctr RAIN Time Out — Equality ing in size. Its expenses, naturally, Each year’s survey is also an opportunity NC Foundation Raleigh Charlotte Youth Ctr have also increased, from $31,292 in to test non-profit organizations’ commit-100 — 2010 to $211,109 in 2013, a 575 percent ments to transparency and compliance with increase.

IRS regulations requiring their annual Forms Charlotte’s Time Out Youth Center has also Time Out Youth Center just five percent. Of all groups were asked to participate and nine — 990 filings. Most organizations have excelled in exhibited strong year-over-year growth. Their 18 organizations surveyed, the Charlotte LGBT more than half — declined to complete the keeping their annual filings updated and most 2013 revenue of $319,111 was a 135 percent center had the highest occupancy expenses survey or disclose Forms 990. already publish their annual Forms 990. Those increase over its 2008 revenue of $135,922. as a share of its total expenses. The center’s In 2012 and 2013, participation rose who don’t publish their 990s receive written Each year, the group has averaged a nearly occupancy expenses also accounted for significantly. This year, every organization — requests from the newspaper for disclosure.

20 percent increase in its annual fundraising. nearly all the money it raised, representing 91 with the exception of South Carolina Equality All but four of the organizations reviewed Time Out Youth’s growth has coincided with percent of its $51,802 in revenue. The group — had publicly available Forms 990, replied to this year had publicly available Forms 990 two strong executive directors and several sets operated at a $42,123 deficit, eating into a qnotes’ disclosure requests or acknowledged or disclosed them to the newspaper when of boards following controversies covered in a $43,730 cash reserve and leaving only $10,476 the request with the current status of their requested. One of the four, South Carolina 2008 qnotes investigative report into one of the by the end of the year. filing process.

Equality, received written disclosure requests group’s former executive directors. The leader from qnotes on Sept. 22 and Sept. 29. The had been accused of mistreating interns and Strong growth for some Revenues and expenses organization does not have what should be youth clients and engaging in several anti-LGFor the first time in our Community Almost all organizations reviewed this year its latest Form 990 available on its website, BT statements and actions. Since that time, the Assessment Survey, qnotes compiled yearsaw increases in their 2013 revenues. There Guidestar.org or a database of Form 990 filings organization has seemed to rebound. Late last over-year data from 2008 to 2013 on five orgawere only three exceptions: Carolinas Care at the Foundation Center. It did not reply to or year, it moved to a new, larger facility. It has nizations which have participated in our survey Partnership, Regional AIDS Interfaith Network acknowledge qnotes’ Form 990 request. also expanded its staff and various services each year. The data suggests that many local (RAIN) and the LGBT Community Center of Two organizations have not yet filed their and programs. and regional LGBT non-profit organizations Charlotte. Each of their revenues declined Forms 990. The Gay Men’s Chorus of Charlotte Equality North Carolina also exhibited strong have experienced better than average support slightly from 2012. said it has requested an extension. Charlotte fundraising skills in the six-year period reand growth in revenues and expenses from RAIN’s declined one percent from Black Gay Pride is in the process of having their viewed by qnotes. It’s advocacy arm increased 2008-2013. That growth bucks national trends $881,132 in 2012 to $871,831 in 2013. tax-exempt status reinstated after it was autoits revenue by 68 percent over 2008, with its and has allowed some to bulk up services, Carolinas Care Partnership also declined matically revoked by the IRS in May 2012. The non-profit foundation seeing an increase of 116 programming and staff. one percent, from $1,548,623 in 2012 to IRS automatically revokes the tax-exempt status percent. The group, which helped lead opposiThe Movement Advancement Project $1,533,957 in 2013. of 501(c)(3) non-profits after they fail to file the tion to North Carolina’s 2012 state constitutional tracks national LGBT social justice organizaThe LGBT Community Center of Charlotte appropriate Form 990 for three years in a row. tions in its annual “National LGBT Movement declined four percent from $53,796 in 2012 to A fourth organization, Hearts Beat as One Report.” According to their reviews, revenues $51,802 in 2013.

Foundation, has not yet been required to file see Survey on 10

Revenue Growth 2008-2013

8

qnotes

Dec. 5-18 . 2014

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News Notes continued from page 6

Triangle Campaign goal met

DURHAM — iNSIDEoUT and Upsidedown have reported that they have exceeded their goal of reaching $5,000 and received $5,377 through a crowd-funding campaign to support its youth programming.

It recently held a middle school GSA forum that they deemed successful, netting over 50 people in attendance. Discussions centered around equal access, intersectionality, mental health, tolerance, teacher support, bullying and harassment, creating safe spaces, GSAs and their place in the schools and more.

The organizations provide resources for LGBT youth, as well as support and activities to empower its members. info: insideout180.org.

— L.M.

Western Women hit dance floor

ASHEVILLE — A pre-holiday dance will be held on Dec. 6, 7:30 p.m., at Eleven on Grove, 11 Grove St. Lesbians in the Mountains serve as host.

Hit the floor while Deanna the DJ spins tunes to dance the evening away.

Snacks and filtered water will be provided, as well as a cash bar.

Admission is $10 and entitles attendees with a hand stamp from the bartender to free

entrance to Scandals downstairs. info: mntbear001@aol.com.

— L.M.

Cantaria holds Xmas concert

ASHEVILLE — Cantaria, the Gay Men’s Chorus of Asheville, will hold a Christmas concert, “Sing We Joyous,” on Dec. 18, 7:30 p.m., and Dec. 21, 4:30 p.m., at First Congregational United Church of Christ, 20 Oak St. Tickets are $20/regular, $25/VIP and are available online or at Malaprops, 55 Haywood St. info: cantariaasheville.org.

— L.M.

Board welcomes new member

HENDERSONVILLE — SisterCare WNC has announced that Linda Jones has joined its board as secretary.

She joins Sandra Franklin, president, Sandra Johnson, vice president, Kathi Lehew, vice president of volunteer services, and Cindy Moors, director of first impressions (public relations and communications).

The organization is always on the lookout for volunteers and welcome their participation.

Contributions are also important to make sure that the work of the group is sustained. info: sistercarewnc.weebly.com.

— L.M.

Youth group slates gala

HICKORY — OUTright Youth of Catawba Valley has announced that their Fourth Annual Evening of Distinction, “Silhouettes on a Winter’s Evening,” will be held on Jan. 31, 2015, 6:30 p.m., at Youssef 242, 242 11th Ave. N.E.

news

TIckets are $100 per person and can be purchased online. Last year’s event was sold out, so early orders are encouraged.

The group is also looking for sponsors and contributors as well. info: outrightyouthcv.org.

— L.M.

South Carolina Town passes pro-LGBT law

LATTA — South Carolina’s smallest town has now passed a law that protects LGBT people against discrimination, two months after the town swore in lesbian Crystal Moore as its police chief, WBTW-TV reported. The new ordinance protects LGBT town employees from discrimination.

Moore was fired by Latta’s Mayor Earl Bullard who did so because she was a lesbian, Moore asserted.

WBTW-TV also reported that Councilman Jarrett Taylor was not concerned about one’s sexuality or beliefs, adding that one’s ability to get the job done was all that was necessary,” Taylor shared. “Our community rallied around the individual for who she was instead of what she was,” Taylor told the station.

“The town passing an ordinance is just one step to making sure everyone is equal,” Moore concluded.

Latta now becomes the sixth municipality to enact such a law. Others include Charleston, Columbia, Myrtle Beach, North Charleston and Richland County.

The ordinance passed 6-0.

— L.M.

Dec. 5-18 . 2014

qnotes

9

2014 Community Assessment Survey Organization Expenses & Revenues Organizations’ financial data is presented below. Unless otherwise specified in footnotes, all figures are reported from 2013 Form 990 filings for calendar and tax year 2013 (Jan. 1-Dec. 31).

Organization

Expenses

Revenue

Occupancy

Salaries/Benefits

Campaign for Southern Equality

$ 234,591

$ 233,555

$ 3,210

$ 120,699

Carolinas Care Partnership^a

$1,489,080

$1,533,957

$ 61,189

$ 574,811

Charlotte Black Gay Pride

Has not yet filed its 2013 Form 990. Tax-exempt status reinstatement requested.b

Charlotte Business Guildc Charlotte Pride

$ 175,773

Charlotte Pride Band ac

< $ 50,000 $ 277,539 < $ 50,000

N/A

N/A

$ 875

N/A

N/A

N/A

Different Roads Home

$ 179,766

$ 311,575

$ 12,000d

$ 70,839d

Equality North Carolinae

$ 500,640

$ 491,720

$ 23,861

$ 386,592

Equality North Carolina Foundation

$ 489,313

$ 456,412

N/Af N/Af

Freedom Center for Social Justiceg

$ 123,786

$ 158,238

$ 5,277

Gay Men’s Chorus of Charlotte

Has not yet filed its 2013 Form 990; has requested an extension

Hearts Beat As One Foundation§

$ 41,822

$ 52,327

N/A

N/A

LGBT Center of Raleigh

$ 211,109

$ 356,377

$ 38,128

$ 65,432

LGBT Community Center of Charlotte

$ 93,925

$ 51,802

$ 47,059

$ 26,635

One Voice Chorus

$ 88,885

$ 104,498

$ 13,369

N/A

Regional AIDS Interfaith Network

$ 875,732

$ 871,831

$ 58,154

$ 615,103

South Carolina Equality

Form 990 could not be found. Organization did not acknowledge or respond to request.

South Carolina Equality Coalition

Form 990 could not be found. Organization did not acknowledge or respond to request.

Southern Country Charlotteb Time Out Youth

$ 253,519

< $ 50,000 $ 319,111

$ 96,437

N/A

N/A

$ 12,000

$ 150,256

Notes: Unless otherwise specified, all financial data represents that which was reported on a Form 990 for fiscal calendar year 2013. a – For fiscal year July 1, 2012-June 30, 2013 b – Charlotte Black Gay Pride is in the process of requesting reinstatement of its tax-exempt status, which was automatically revoked by the IRS in 2010 after failing to file a Form 990 for three consecutive years. Its event this year was operated under the non-profit fiscal sponsorship of the Center for Black Equity. c – Small organizations are not required to file full Forms 990 or Forms 990-EZ. These organizations filed a Form 990-N “e-Postcard” with the IRS, indicating their gross receipts were no greater than $50,000. d – As reported under “Payroll” and “Rent” in a “Profit & Loss” statement attached to organization’s Form 990. The attached statement also includes $9,240 in contractor fees, $1,684 in electricity costs and $400 for security costs. e – The organization notes that its revenue and expenses in 2013, like 2012, were unusually high, given the transition of multiple high-level staff and the organization’s transitions after the 2012 anti-LGBT constitutional amendment. f – Equality North Carolina Foundation shares some expenses with Equality North Carolina and did not record its own occupancy or salary expenses in its Form 990. g – The Freedom Center for Social Justice’s tax-exempt status was automatically revoked by the IRS this year after failing to file a Form 990 for three consecutive years. The group had its status reinstated in October. § – Hearts Beat As One Foundation was founded in April 2014. It has not yet been required to file a Form 990 for its activities this year. Data presented here represents voluntarily submitted, unreviewed and preliminary figures and estimates as of the date of the newspaper’s requests and are not reflective nor predictive of any final accounting to be reported on Hearts Beat As One Foundation’s 2014 Form 990. The foundation also reports donations to charitable causes and organizations represent 81 percent of its expenses as of Nov. 29, 2014.

Context and background: 10

qnotes

Dec. 5-18 . 2014

Editor Matt Comer shares important background facts and context for this year’s Community Assessment Survey, in addition to some personal analysis and takeaways from this year’s data. Read more in the Editor’s Note column on page 4.

Survey continued from page 8 amendment banning LGBT marriage, cites the amendment campaign as a primary driver of the increases. Revenue for the two associated organizations fell in 2012 after the amendment passed in a May 2012 primary. However, revenue rose again in 2013 and the group continues to have a strong staff presence.

Stability and challenge Two of the five organizations reviewed over the six-year period experienced either slight increases or significant challenge.

RAIN’s revenues have seen both highs and lows over six years, though the group’s 2013 revenue still represents an 11 percent increase over its revenue in 2008. RAIN’s revenue peaked at $1,090,133 in 2009, from $786,491 the year prior. In 2010, revenue fell slightly to $958,634.

The sharp increases in 2009-2010 coincide with the decline of Metrolina AIDS Project, another local AIDS service group which shut down in 2010 after cases of financial mismanagement in the organization were revealed. RAIN’s revenue declined five percent from 2011 to 2012 and just one percent from 2012 to 2013.

Nathan Smith, RAIN’s director of development and marketing, said added client services due to MAP’s closing accounted for a portion of the increases, as did the addition of medical case management to their roster of client services. The new service brought with it new Ryan White funds.

The accompanying decrease in the years following came as RAIN closed the medical case management program to create its own “more sustainable” service, Smith said.

Fundraising, though, has remained stable, Smith said, adding that the group still faces some challenges.

“Like all non-profits that were hit by the 2009 recession, RAIN worked at sustaining the services we were offering our clients and community,” Smith said. “RAIN has worked tirelessly to be on a sustainable path and we are currently doing that through partnerships and strategic planning such as our recent move to the CFSC (Children and Family Services Center) last September.”

Only one local organization saw significant decreases in its revenue. The LGBT Community Center of Charlotte’s four-percent decline in 2013 is one in a string of recent declining revenue years. Center revenues peaked at $108,263 in 2011, bolstered by a sharp increase in Pride Charlotte fundraising that year, the first time the event was held in Uptown. In 2012, the center’s revenue dropped 50 percent, after Pride Charlotte activities broke even after expanding to two days in anticipation of its 2013 parade. [Ed. Note — This writer served several years on the volunteer committee of Pride Charlotte and board of Charlotte Pride.]

In all, the center’s revenue in 2013 represented a 35 percent decline over revenue in 2008. While revenue was dropping, center leaders increased their expenses by 30 percent during the same five-year period. : :

goqnotes.com/to/news/non-profit-surveys/

in focus: non-profits

Local major donors favor both national and local groups Survey of ten groups shows local and national giving nearly evenly split

by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com

A

first-ever representative survey of 10 LGBT non-profits with donors in the Charlotte area reveals a new picture of the local major donor community. The survey finds near-even support split between national and local groups and a new glimpse into local giving patterns. qnotes utilized publicly available lists of major donors from non-profit organizations serving the LGBT community and based in Charlotte or those with a significant local presence. The donor records were compiled from groups’ websites, event program books and other sources. Groups represented in the survey, undertaken this year as part of our annual Community Assessment Survey reporting, included a mix of national and local groups, those offering direct services or client support and arts, education and advocacy groups.

A total of 201 individual donors giving at the $500 level and above were identified, representing at least $285,300 in giving.

Of that total minimum amount, $162,800, or 57 percent, was given to organizations with a national mission or focus. Groups with a local mission or focus received $122,500, or 43 percent.

goqnotes.com

Few major donors The relatively small number of identified individual major donors — an average of just 20 per group — bolsters data collected for last year’s non-profit review. Participating organizations were asked to share the total number of individual donors who had given at any level to their groups.

Combined, the 10 groups reported a total of 4,164 individual contributors. There are two ways to apply that number to the

larger LGBT community. As reported last year, it represents just 1.7 percent of more than 240,000 LGBT people or potential straight allies living in Charlotte, according to a 2011 Public Policy Polling survey of Charlotte residents which found 32 percent of respondents identified as LGBT or had a friend or family member who identified as LGBT. A more generous percentage can be found using a 2012 Gallup poll which found 3.3 percent of North Carolina residents identified as LGBT; if extrapolated to the population of Charlotte, the portion of LGBT individual contributors to local non-profits rises to 17 percent.

Low rates of LGBT philanthropic giving are seen nationwide.

The Movement Advancement Project’s “2013 National LGBT Movement Report” revealed that only about three percent of LGBT adults had donated $35 or more to one of the organizations it surveyed. Unlike qnotes’ survey, the project’s report did not take into account possible duplication among donors and further assumed all donors identify as LGBT. “This suggests that the vast majority of LGBT adults in the U.S. do not currently financially support these leading LGBT organizations,” the Movement Advancement Project wrote. “Note that this analysis does not assess overall giving to all LGBT organizations

by LGBT adults; this larger analysis would need to include LGBT adults who have donated to organizations not included in this report, as well as donors who have given under $35.”

Major donors favor two groups Many major donors often contributed to other organizations at levels below $500. While only two percent of major donors con-

tributed to three or more groups — with just one percent giving to four or more groups — a far larger portion, 14 percent, gave to two or more groups.

Among the latter, major donors seemed to favor two organizations — one local and one national.

The most popular group chosen for donations was the Charlotte Lesbian & Gay Fund; 69 percent of donors giving to two or more groups donated to the dedicated giving fund through its annual stakeholders program. The funds raised represented a total of at least $60,000. Donations to the Charlotte Lesbian & Gay Fund are pooled and redirected to other local community groups in the fund’s annual grant making process.

Sixty-two percent of donors giving to two or more groups contributed to the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) through their Federal Club Council and Federal Club giving programs. Funds from local major donors to HRC accounted for at least $154,800.

Sixty-six percent of major donors giving to two or more groups included at least one gift to an organization with a national mission or focus and one gift to an organization with a local mission or focus.

All told, 33 percent of all identified major donors gave to HRC and 30 percent gave to the Charlotte Lesbian & Gay Fund.

Charlotte-area donors accounted for 40 percent of major Carolinas-area donors to HRC, raising 45 percent of the total minimum $341,200 in Federal Club Council and Federal Club giving.

see Major on 19

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Dec. 5-18 . 2014

qnotes

11

It’s all for the kids Time Out Youth Center leads the Queen City in services for LGBT youth

by Lainey Millen :: lainey@goqnotes.com

T

ime Out Youth Center, a Charlotte organization offering direct services and support to LGBT youth, is among one of the strongest-performing non-profit groups in qnotes’ 2014 Community Assessment Survey, an annual review of local and regional organizations’ financial and tax filings.

The group’s most recent spate of growth comes after more than two decades of history.

Started in 1991, founder Tonda Taylor held her first support group meeting with just four lesbian and gay youth. The group went on to work with clergy, educators and young people to change the landscape and local environment for LGBT youth.

It its first few years, it hosted the area’s first LGBT youth prom, challenged those who were non-inclusive in their practices and was part of national initiatives on LGBT youth and more.

Today, it has grown into a positive example of local non-profit growth. This year’s non-profit survey shows its fundraising revenue has consistently increased over several years, allowing the organization to expand its services and programs.

As program capacity increased, so did Time Out Youth’s need for new space. Today, it operates out of a 3,000-square-foot facility in NoDa, at 2320-A N. Davidson St., including two group rooms, kitchen, three offices, counseling center and reception area.

Under the leadership of Executive Director Rodney Tucker, as well as previous director Steve Bentley, the organization has left the shadow

12

qnotes

Dec. 5-18 . 2014

of controversies in 2008. At the time, a former executive director had been accused of intimidating staff, interns and youth clients, along with engaging in anti-LGBT statements and actions.

She eventually resigned, and Bentley, new board members and Tucker undertook new efforts to grow the organization.

Now it supports three full-time and one parttime staff members. Also, four interns from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte work onsite to provide additional support services to the staff and clients. New in 2015 through a partnership with the Charlotte Business Guild and Charlotte Works, five paid internships will focus on a statewide GSA network, community relations, youth outreach, and social work.

“Time Out Youth Center is now a real non-profit,” said Tucker. “The new center has increased our presence in the community and professionalism of the organization.”

But it cannot do this without its staff and volunteers.

Joining Tucker are O’Neale Atkinson, director of youth programs; Todd Rosendahl, director of school outreach; and Shakira Clark, director of youth services.

Tucker sports over 20 years of non-profit manageTIme Out Youth Center captured the Equality North Carolina Foundation’s 2014 Organization of the Year.

Staff and interns show their pride about the award. Left to right are Trey Green, intern, Shakira Clarke, ment experience at local and national levels focused on fundraising, strategic and financial planning, coalidirector of youth services, O’Neale Atkinson, director of youth programs, Christine Blonowicz, office tion building and advocacy. administor, Rodney Tucker, executive director, and Todd Rosendahl, director of school outreach.

in focus: non-profits

goqnotes.com/to/news/non-profit-surveys/

Atkinson, who worked briefly as this newspaper’s editor in 2012, has also previously worked with The LGBT Center of Charlotte and has also worked with non-profit and community organizations.

Rosendahl has worked as an academic tutor and grant writer, as well as teaching in classrooms from K-12 and higher. His undergraduate and graduate research focused on gays-straight alliances, creating queer spaces and intersectionality.

Clark was on a championship CIAA women’s basketball team and was a Phi Alpha social work national honor society member in college.

Successes have been plentiful at TOY. In 2013, staffers said it provided 1,376 hours of drop-in space programming, trained 64 volunteers, made presentations to 740 people, provided 536 nights of housing for six youth, was instrumental in providing 32 youth access to emergency financial assistance, gave 14 clients 72 hours of free individual counseling, as well as supported 28 gay-straight alliances reaching 481 youth.

TOY received its first federal grant through a partnership with the Charlotte Women’s Commission so that a social worker could work with LGBT youth and healthy relationships.

Additionally, PFLAG is able to offer services to parents. The center has a reduced age limit so that younger youth can find a safe space in which to thrive.

The organization has a partnership with UNC-Charlotte to provide free counseling to youth and parents while offering individual, couples and family counseling.

Its progressive Q-Tribe initiative has been created to make the center more trans inclusive.

Partnerships are essential in propelling the services provided by TOY. It has national partnerships with Advocates for Youth, Campus Pride, CenterLink, Forty to None Project, GLSEN, GSA Network and the Human Rights Campaign Foundation. On a local level it gets support from Alexander Children Homes, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Public Libraries, Freedom Center for Social Justice, Human Rights Campaign, LGBT Center of Raleigh, Mecklenburg County Public Health, Outright Youth-Catawba Valley, Regional AIDS Interfaith Network, The Relatives, Safe Alliance, Youth Out Right-Asheville and the Women’s Commission of Mecklenburg County.

Tucker said that TOY is fortunate to have the support of many community members and local foundations including the Charlotte Lesbian and Gay Fund, Laughing Gull Foundation, Freeman Foundation, Charlotte Mecklenburg Community Foundation, Gamma Mu Foundation, Farewell to Summer Foundation and sponsors of the group’s annual Platinum Gala and Celebration of the Arts.

For a non-profit, the diversity of its fundraising support is important.

“The board has implemented a development plan to ensure the success of our center,” Tucker said. “The fundraising plan focuses on a balanced revenue stream from individuals, grants and special events. Individual donors are a key component to the agencies success.”

Even though it has seen many successes over the years, there are still obstacles.

“Youth voice and youth leadership are our top challenges,” Tucker shared. “If we are not hearing the youth’s needs, we will not be relevant as an organization.”

Tucker added: “We have several target populations — youth, parents, teachers and community. Developing messages that are appropriate and use the correct technology to reach them is a constant challenge.”

Tucker also said the organization faces challenges in “providing professional opportunities for young LGBTQ advocates to learn and work in the LGBTQ field,” though, he said, the group is “luck to have a staff that is professionally trained and educated in LGBT issues.”

Tucker added: “We want to give back and provide that opportunity for others.”

To face some of their challenges, Tucker said community members can help in several ways.

Primarily, the group needs adults who can provide host homes to youth without places to stay.

“LGBTQ youth are homeless at a higher rate than non-LGBTQ youth,” Tucker said. “Our Host Home Program needs adults who are willing to open their home from one night to three months to help a youth in need.”

Donations to the group’s Emergency Financial Assistance fund is also needed. “The Center spends over $3,000 per year in financial assistance to youth in need,” Tucker said. “Donations of gift cards to grocery stores, drug stores, local restaurants [and] bus tickets are needed year round.”

The group also looks for opportunities to take its programs and services on the road. It offers free presentations to schools, businesses and congregations.

On the horizon for 2015, TOY has various milestones it hopes to achieve. It wants to maintain its core programs, while growing its comprehensive marketing plan targeting youth, parents, teachers and school administrators and the community. TOY is also looking to expand its regional focus by bringing discussion groups into rural counties. They also want to add therapeutic groups for youth and parents and gain more support for the new statewide GSA Network.

Recently, TOY became an official David Bohnett Foundation Cyber Center. The grant totaled $29,670 that covered the acquisition of 10 computers, a laser printer with warranty, extra toner, tax and shipping, as well as $11,000 in cash to pay for IT support, furniture and more.

This grant, Tucker said, should be renewed every three years to ensure the equipment is up to date. They expect the shipment any time now. : : info: timeoutyouth.org. 704-344-8335.

TOY Holiday Wish List Time Out Youth Center would gratefully receive the following items for distribution to LGBT youth during the holiday season.

• Emergency financial assistance gift cards (Walmart, CVS, Food Lion, VISA, Papa Johns, Taco Bell, McDonalds and Bojangles are some of their favorites) • Snacks (crackers, granola bars, snack packs) • Art supplies (paint, brushes, canvases, water color paper, colored pencils, pastels) • Board and video games (age appropriate, XBox, XBox 360, PlayStation 2, Wii, suitable for group or party games), Wii game system • Toiletries (shaving cream, razors, deodorant, tooth brush, toothpaste) • Cosmetics (blush, eyeliner, lipstick, nail polish) • Tickets to Carowinds • LGBT DVDs or books (PG-13 or TV-14 rated, unless LGBT documentary) • Pride flags (rainbow, bi, trans) • Lava lamps, disco ball, surround sound • Travel speakers for phone and laptops • Copier, lap top, sound bar with bluetooth Other services that are always welcome year round are host home providers, volunteers and sponsors for Friday night dinners for 20 youth.

A holiday benefit to raise funds for TOY will be held on Dec. 14, 1 p.m., at Hattie’s Tap & Tavern, 2918 The Plaza. TOY is appreciative for any funds that can be contributed or raised for its center.

Dec. 5-18 . 2014

qnotes

13

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tell trinity

by Trinity :: qnotes contributor :: trinity@telltrinity.com

I deserve more! I deserve more!

I deserve more!

Dearest Trinity, My ex cheated on me several times, but I still love him. We’re not together anymore, but I’m trying desperately to win him back even though he may not want me. What should I do?

Desperate, Kansas City, MO Dearest Desperate, A desperate person who goes after inconsistent, one-sided relationships always knows he or she is acting desperately and inconsistently to themselves (period). Baby, whatever abandonment issues you acquired in your youth, unlearn these fears immediately and start yearning for a better life. Keep reminding

yourself, “I deserve more! I deserve more! I deserve more!”

Hello Trinity, My houseguests left me with a mess. I didn’t want to be rude, but I am ready to kill them.

What do I do next time?

House Mess, Flagstaff, AZ Hello House Mess, Before you get left holding the broom again, let this be a lesson. Next time, let your guests know the “House Guest Rules” before they settle in. Either place a note on the refrigerator or on their nightstand. Some fools, I mean folks, don’t know how to be good house guests, so

you’re better off just showing them right up front. (My cartoon shows you how I’d deal with this myself.

Say “tidy” anyone?)

Hey Trinity, I stupidly moved with my boyfriend into his parent’s house. He said, “We’ll save money until we get on our (financial) feet.” We’re on our feet now, but he still insists on “staying and saving money.” I love his family, but I want our own space.

Help!

Family Trapped, Charleston, SC Hey Trapped, It sounds like he’s having to choose between his family and his relationship and you’re having to do the same, but for different reasons.

A timeline is going to have to be drawn. Timelines and goals are always good motivators. I’m sure his parents want their place back, too, as well as their son to grow up. So, maybe they can help as well. And, sweetie, if after a while he still doesn’t want a new place, then you may have to find a new boyfriend.

Dear Trinity, I borrowed money from my ex and it’s taking much longer to pay it back. Now, like a bounty hunter, I am constantly being harassed for the money. How do I get him off my back?

Hunted, Savannah, GA Dear Hunted, If you want him off your back, then show some backbone and get your debt off his back.

Pumpkin, you can steal someone’s heart, but not their money. So, here are: Trinity’s Tips For Owing Money Responsibly To Someone You Know 1. H aving to chase someone for money is awful. Make their responsibility yours by keeping in constant contact with them.

2. E ven if it’s only 1 percent of what you owe, send timely payments. You’ll be glad you did!

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3. D on’t just write or email, but call to say, “Hi, I haven’t forgot about you!”

4. I f you can’t figure out how to pay someone back, then think: bank loan, credit card loan or getting a different personal loan.

5. E ven if you borrow money from the richest low life on earth, you borrowed it. You must pay it back! (Key word: integrity) 6. If you’re very short loan turns into a very long disaster then find another fool, I mean friend, to borrow from. End this debt and begin another!

7. N ever hide from your debts, but physically visit the person you owe money to and take them to lunch!

8. S howing your honest face and acting friendly for some emotional reason makes your outstanding loan a lot more forgivable!

9. W hen you do make that final payment, include a card, a gift and a big “Thanks!”

10. L astly, if you just keep paying off some of your loan, you can usually extend it. In theory, you can keep an honest loan lasting quite some time! : : info: With a Masters of Divinity, Reverend Trinity hosted “Spiritually Speaking,” a weekly radio drama performed globally, and is now minister of sponsor, WIG: Wild Inspirational Gatherings, wigministries.org. Learn more at telltrinity.com.

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SPORTS

Playing the Field Seasons come to end across the Queen City

by Jon Hoppel :: qnotes contributor

Charlotte Stonewall Kickball league coaches and players Photo Credit: Arron Malachi

As the year comes to a close and the holiday season gets into full gear, almost all sports leagues have shut down for the winter.

So, here is a quick year-end wrap up to get you caught up on this exciting past year of LGBT sports.

Kickball The Charlotte Stonewall Kickball League wrapped up their season with a dinner banquet/awards ceremony on Dec. 4 at The Bar at 316, 316 Rensselaer Ave. The STEPPford Wives won the league by going undefeated

throughout the season and at press time was considered a sure bet to most likely go home with a slew of awards. The league, which raised several hundreds of dollars for Time Out youth, will be firing back up this spring. If you would like more information about the league and/or would like to join, check out their page on Facebook. All news and signup information will be posted there.

Teams are: Kick Foâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Your Liiiiiife, Kick Teasers, Pitch, Please!, STEPPford Wives, The Growlers and The Kicki Longstockings.

To learn more, visit facebook.com/ stonewallkickballcharlotte.

Rugby The Charlotte Royals finished up their season with a home match against Guilford College on Nov. 8. The Royals were coming off a tough loss on the road versus the Columbus Coyotes and were looking to beat Guilford for the first time in team history. And they had to do

Maintaining possession was key for the Charlotte Royals Photo Credit: Alex Aguilar

it without two starting forwards and their starting flyhalf that were all out with injuries.

Guilford set the tone early with a score in the first two minutes of the game, but the Royals were able to hold steadfast and eventually leveled the game 20 minutes in. However, that tie was short-lived when Guilford scored on the very next play of the game to renew their one score lead. Then the same thing hap-

see next page u

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The Charlotte Royals capture the ball during game play against Guilford College

A Charlotte Royals team member charges on in an attempt to score.

Photo Credit: Alex Aguilar

pened again right before half. Charlotte was able to score, followed by another score from Guilford, which took that lead into halftime. Both teams showed tons of grit and determination throughout the game, but Charlotte was never able to score on back-to-back possessions and Guilford was able to maintain their slight lead the rest of the game. The final score, 28-22.

The Royals will start back up again in February 2015. For more information, go to charlotteroyals.org.

life

Photo Credit: Alex Aguilar

Softball The Carolina Softball Alliance has been beset with some troublesome weather this season and has had to delay their end-ofthe-year Championship tournament to Dec. 7.

The tournament starts at 2 p.m. at Revolution Park, 1225 Remount Rd., with five teams vying for the leagueâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s crown. Here is the schedule of games so you can catch your favorite team in action: 2 p.m.: Warriors vs Come Backs

3 p.m.: 2 p.m. Winner vs Carolina Showtime 4 p.m.: Angry Sticks vs Swingers 5 p.m.: 4 p.m. winner vs 3 p.m. winner Visit eaguelineup.com/welcome. asp?url=carolinasoftball to llearn more.

That is it for now sports fans. We at qnotes hope everyone has a great holiday season. And we hope to see you out supporting your local teams in the spring! : :

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Q SEP DEC

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C A L E N DA R DECEMBER 2014

To see more upcoming events, visit goqnotes.com/calendar/ Submit your event at goqnotes.com/eventsubmit/

Continues through Dec. 6 Ghosts of Christmas Past Unitarian Universalist Church of Charlotte 234 N. Sharon Amity Rd., Charlotte

One Voice Chorus presents their annual holiday concert with three opportunities to get in the Christmas spirit: Dec. 5-6, 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 6, 2 p.m. Tickets: $22/ advance, $27/door (Matinee: $17). onevoicechorus.com A Holiday Affair SEP DEÇ L4 Lounge 2906 Central Ave., Charlotte 10 p.m.-2 a.m.

Charlotte Black Gay Pride hosts a holiday party. $10 admission. charlotteblackgaypride.com

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BRIEF Calendar Launch SEP DEC 1426 S. Tryon St., Charlotte Noon-3 p.m.

Join BRIEF for the launch of their official 2015 Men of BRIEF Calendar launch party, rescheduled from Nov. 29. The calendar is free to all attendees of the 2014 BRIEF Fashion Event. shopbrief.com ––––––––––––––––––– Twirl to the World Visulite Theatre 1615 Elizabeth Ave., Charlotte 9 p.m.-2:30 a.m.

Just Twirl presents its sixth annual Twirl to the World holiday party, raising funds and collecting stuffed animals and toys for children in need. The party, paid for by hosts and sponsors, donates all of the funds and gifts it receives. This year’s charities are Campus Pride and Smart Start of Mecklenburg County. Learn more and purchase tickets online. justtwirl.com

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Continues through Dec. 13 Sleighbells & Sunscreen St. Martin’s Episcopal Church 1510 E. 7th St., Charlotte Gay Men’s Chorus of Charlotte hosts their annual holiday concert. Join in on two nights, Dec. 12-13, both performances at 8:04 p.m. Tickets: $20-$25 gmccharlotte.org

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Take Time for SEP DEC Time Out Youth Hattie’s Tap & Tavern 2918 The Plaza, Charlotte 1 p.m.

Time Out Youth hosts a holiday-time fundraiser. The group is always collecting monetary donations, but will also be accepting items on the group’s wish list for youth clients. See our story on page 13 for a listing of items on the group’s wish list. timeoutyouth.org ––––––––––––––––––– Charlotte Pride Band Winter Concert Temple Beth El 5101 Providence Rd., Charlotte 3-4:30 p.m.

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Charlotte Pride Band presents its annual, free winter concert, featuring the band’s small ensembles, including jazz, brass and woodwind groups.

The group will also be collecting goods for the Jewish Family Services’ food pantry, including: ketchup, mayonnaise, cookies, dish soap, men’s shaving gram, canned vegetables (excluding corn, green beans or peas), shelf-stable puddings, chips, laundry detergent, peanut butter crackers, coffee, canned chicken, salmon or tuna. charlotteprideband.org

Submit your event to our calendar!

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Christmas Feast and Fellowship Sacred Souls Community Church 2127 Eastway Dr., Charlotte 11 a.m.

Chanukah begins at sunset. A special service to “remember the true reason for the season,” featuring a guest speaker followed by a fellowship after the service.

Beyond Marriage Equality SEP DEC Levine Museum of the New South Christmas 200 E. 7th St., Charlotte SEP DEÇ Day 7 p.m.

Happy Campus Pride and the Freedom Center Holidays for Social Justice present a Charlotte from the community forum, “Beyond Marriage staff at qnotes!

Equality, Social Justice, Intersectionality Peace & Joy! & Southern Organizing for LGBTQ Communities.” Organizers say discussion will focus on the value of creating Watch Night an “intersectional” framework for colSEP DEC Sacred Souls Community lective organizing. Panelists will share Church their experiences and the often complex 2127 Eastway Dr., Charlotte struggles of LGBTQ work beyond mar9 p.m. riage equality, including those related to Sacred Souls hosts a night of high praise race, ethnicity, gender, sex, class, age, ableness, social status and other identi- and worship featuring various musical groups and sermon by Bishop Tonyia ties. Event is free.

Rawls for a prosperous New Year. campuspride.org. fcsj.org.

SEP DEC

New Life Christmas SEP DEC New Life Metropolitan Community Church 1900 The Plaza, Charlotte 7 p.m.

New Life MCC will hold its Christmas worship service the Sunday before the holiday.

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New SEP JAN Year’s Day Time to dust off those old and new resolutions and get in gear for a terrific gay ole’ the year!

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You can submit your event to our comprehensive community calendar presented by qnotes, the LGBT Community Center of Charlotte and Visit Gay Charlotte. Submit your event at goqnotes.com/eventsubmit/ and get a three-for-one entry. All Charlotte-area events will appear on each of the three calendars at qnotes (goqnotes. com), the LGBT Center (lgbtcharlotte.org) and Visit Gay Charlotte (visitgaycharlotte.com).

in focus: non-profits Center

goqnotes.com/to/news/non-profit-surveys/

continued from page 5 Center leaders are inviting community members from a diversity of perspectives — including other non-profit staffers or leaders — to join them in their 1,000 Conversations project.

“We want it to be made up of diverse people, because we’re looking to facilitate conversations in a diverse community,” Lewis said.

Those interested can contact the center through its website, lgbtcharlotte.org, to get involved.

Stone thinks the Charlotte center might have the potential to rebuild, but it will require increased community involvement and support.

“They are really committed and dedicated and want to do the right thing,” Stone said of the Charlotte center board leaders. “But I haven’t seen the community rally behind that group and say, ‘Yes, we believe in your leadership and we’ll come along with you.’ I know there are some really good people with good hearts meaning to make a difference. I haven’t yet seen the community make that turn and support them and let the past go.”

Other groups rise from challenge Charlotte’s LGBT center isn’t the only group to have faced challenges this year. The Freedom Center for Social Justice had its tax-exempt status automatically revoked by the Internal Revenue Service earlier this year, though it was quickly reinstated this fall.

The group had also housed the LGBTQ Law Center, which provided free or low-cost legal services to LGBT clients. Fundraising challenges throughout the year eventually led to the group’s decision to shutter the group.

But Freedom Center leaders say their future “looks bright.”

“We are entering a five-year strategic planning process and positioning ourselves for sustainable growth in our press to continue to shift culture toward a more just and LGBTQ inclusive world,” the group said in a release earlier this fall, noting future events, programs

and partnerships with a variety of organizations. The group also hopes to continue legal support through a referral network.

Like the Freedom Center, Charlotte Black Gay Pride has also faced compliance issues with the IRS. They’re still in the process of requesting their reinstatement, buoyed in the meantime by support from Center for Black Equity, which provided the group a non-profit fiscal sponsorship for its activities this year.

Crystal Long, chair of Charlotte Black Gay Pride, said this year has taught important lessons on commitment and consistency.

“That’s one of the issues with having volunteer boards,” she said. “Not every organization can afford to hire staff and you’re going to have to have volunteers.”

David Heinen, vice president for public policy and advocacy at the NC Center for Nonprofits, said filing and compliance issues are often faced by newer or smaller non-profit organizations.

The Freedom Center, a newer group, said its tax-exempt revocation came as a “devastating blow” after being previously “wrongly advised” on filing requirements.

Charlotte Black Gay Pride’s volunteer turnover helped contribute to its challenge.

Heinen has seen volunteer leadership changes or the loss of an original founder or board member with institutional knowledge lead to missed deadlines.

Heinen suggests that non-profits institutionalize policies and procedures and make sure all new board members learn those standards.

“Basic things all non-profits should be doing is making sure every board member is looking at 990 filings, even if it’s a small organization filing the 990-N ePostcard,” said Heinen. “Have a policy that you do it the same time every year at a board meeting and spend five minutes making sure everyone has a copy of the 990. That’s a real basic thing to keep non-profits out of trouble.” : :

Major donors continued from page 11 Methodology Data sources: qnotes’ survey examined the most recently available, public lists of major donors from 10 organizations, compiled from groups’ websites, event program books or annual reports. In three cases, organizations submitted already-public donor information directly to qnotes. The information represents contributions made any time between late 2012 and late 2014. The newspaper and its staff also published several public or semi-public notifications to local organizational leaders informing them of our search for donor data; two organizations responded.

Organizations reviewed: Campus Pride (national education/advocacy, locally-based), Human Rights Campaign (national education/advocacy, significant local presence), Hearts Beat as One (philanthropy), Charlotte Pride (education and awareness), Charlotte Lesbian & Gay Fund (philanthropy), Regional AIDS Interfaith Network (direct services), Mecklenburg LGBT Political Action Committee (political advocacy), One Voice Chorus (arts),

Gay Men’s Chorus of Charlotte (arts) and Charlotte Pride Band (arts).

Organizational finances: Organizations’ revenues ranged from under $50,000 annually to over $50 million annually.

Determining number of individual donors: Donor names were verified as living in Charlotte or the immediately surrounding metro area. Donors outside of the metro area were not counted. Donors whose residences could not be adequately confirmed were not counted. Couples who contributed together were counted as single donors. Small groups of individuals who gave collectively were counted as single donors. National corporations and organizations were not counted.

Local businesses or business owners who regularly donate under their corporate name were counted. Two small non-profit foundations, the Wesley Mancini Foundation and Gee Family Foundation, were each counted as individual donors. Newspaper staff reviewed only individual donor lists; corporate sponsor lists were not reviewed. : :

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