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Greetings,
Last night's house party at the home of Paige Heavey and Kate Seastone was uplifting and gave us hope for the future. After our social hour, guests heard from a number of speakers who each brought a unique perspective to the work of Equality Arizona. First up was Board Co-Chair R. Scott Harnisch who spoke about why he is involved with Equality Arizona. "I see the possibilities we give to youth, how they are our future and the many ways we are building leadership in Arizona," stated Harnisch. "Education is the foundation of change and education is the foundation of Equality Arizona". Scott also spoke about the financial challenges faced by nonprofits in this new economic environment. He reviewed a number of measures Equality Arizona has taken this year to stabilize the organization and cited the important role donors have in creating a solid foundation. That was a great transition to the next speaker Representative Robert Meza. Rep. Meza articulated how nonprofits must shift their paradigm to a focus that ensures maximum return on investment. Rep. Meza stated Equality Arizona has embraced this new way of thinking early on. Programs and services offered by Equality Arizona shows donors how their contributions are creating change in Arizona. Rep. Meza then introduced Equality Arizona's Executive Director, Barbara McCullough-Jones. Telling several stories of how Equality Arizona changes hearts and minds every day, McCullough-Jones outlined how the Equality Faith Initiative is working in rural Arizona. She spoke about how the digital expansion project has grown to nearly 5,000 contacts each week and helped reduce isolation in rural areas. In speaking about developing leadership McCullough-Jones introduced the staff and told of their extraordinary commitment to not only the programs they each focus on but how their enthusiasm, ideas and "can do" attitude is changing the way we do business. These changes have made the organization accessible to all who work to secure, protect and defend the rights and welfare of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people in Arizona. McCullough-Jones thanked two very special guests for attending the gathering - Greg Stanton, Deputy Attorney General and David Cavasos the newly appointed Phoenix City Manager. Stanton spoke both about his long history as a supporter of Equality Arizona and the strong relationship with Attorney General Terry Goddard. Stanton was clear that despite the political struggles we face in Arizona our future is hopeful. He looks to Equality Arizona to continue having a strong voice in developing public policy that is good for all Arizona families. Finally, David Cavasos spoke proudly of his long term commitment to civil rights and made it clear as City Manager of the 5th largest city in the country he is determined to erase discrimination and remove roadblocks to success for LGBT people. Cavasos specifically mentioned addressing issues of public accommodation and expanding DP registry rights as ways to make Phoenix a city to be proud of. Closing the evening McCullough-Jones stated, "As LGBT and allied people in Arizona we have a vested interest in building a viable, strong economy in our state. In doing so, we will dismantle the notion that "Arizona is closed for business". Only then we will begin to attract businesses who understand the strength of a diverse workforce. To accomplish that task Equality Arizona must be fiscally sound and we must look for and build partnerships in places previously unseen. We are up to the task but need help from all people who care about basic human rights to join with us. Join with us by making a significant financial contribution today and join with us in building partnerships that move Arizona forward." Sincerely, Ps. Did you know it's easy to host a house party? Just contact Debbie at debbie@equalityarizona.org or call 480-274-3561 and she'll help you with details for organizing a successful fundraiser for Equality Arizona. It's fun. It's with family, friends and co-workers. And, it's a great way to make a difference in creating change right here in Arizona. Every dollar raised here - stays here! |
There are only 10 days to
go in our 30 day fundraising challenge. Today's message
is about a fun way to help meet this goal. Please read
on!