5 ways to support equality at the 2010 HRC gala while on a limited budget

On February 27th 2010, The 15th annual HRC Gala will be held at the Raleigh Convention Center. This weekend full of events is both a celebration of the LGBT & Allied Community and a fundraiser to support HRC's mission of to end discrimination against LGBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all. Unfortunately though, for many in this time of economic hardship, a full price ticket to the gala is beyond our means. Not to worry though, there is a way for almost everyone to take part in the celebration. Here are 5 of them:

1. Scholarship - If you are between the ages of 18 and 25 and are active in supporting the struggle for equality, you could be illegible for an Emerging Leaders scholarship. This program includes a short course on LGBT advocacy, volunteering on the day of the gala, and complimentary attendance at the gala itself!.
   
2. Fellowship - If you are of limited income and can demonstrate a need, you may be elligible for a Gala Fellowship. If granted, the fellowship is a half-price ticket.
3. Student Ticket - If you are a student and can produce a valid Student ID on the night of the gala, you can purchase a half-price ticket.
   
4. Volunteer - It takes dozens of volunteers to set up, run, and clean up after the gala. If you don't have money for a ticket, consider volunteering instead. You'll at least be near enough to hear the speakers and you still get to eat free. :)
5. Attend the supporting events - If the previous ways do not appeal to you, there are plenty of other events surrounding the gala weekend. From the Friday night takeover, art, bar and restaurant crawls, to the Saturday night after parties, and gospel brunch on Sunday. All of these events are $35 or less and most of them are virtually free (minus the cost of what you eat and drink of course)

So you see, there are plenty of ways to take part in the 2010 HRC Carolinas Gala, even if you are on a budget. :) For more information on the gala, schedule of events, application forms, and contact info, please visit the website at http://hrccarolinas.org.

Happy Holidays,

Madeline Goss, Joni Madison, Robert Dogens
Your 2010 HRC Carolinas Gala Co-chairs