Since its formation in 2011, LGBT of Walworth County has been working hard to serve the needs of people who have become disenfranchised and marginalized because they identify or view themselves as being non-straight. For 7 years we have been advocates for this population, offering information, support, education, resources, and services. We live in an area known for its conservatism. The increasing politicization of individual rights has made the County’s LGBTQ community nervous about how they might be treated if they are viewed as being “different.” Out of safety concerns, members of this community see no other choice than to remain silent or in the closet regarding their true selves.
In 2017, we wanted be very clear about sending a message to the LGBTQ community and its allies, “You are not alone.” To that end, we wanted to have an event that brought together services, businesses, and organizations from rural Southeastern Wisconsin who were LGBTQ friendly. What better way to do it than to host a special fair that was free to attend? This fair would provide a consolidation of area businesses, where our community could go to get help and to find services. People would be able to get questions answered, see what was going on in Walworth County, find services of which they could make use, sample food from local vendors and groups, and socialize. All offered in a safe, relaxed environment.
We had 35 tents set up. We had legal organizations, churches, health care organizations, free on site AIDs testing, other advocacy groups, counselors, therapists, a live radio broadcast, food and craft vendors, raffles, and a gathering tent with a DJ. This was our “Field of Dreams.” We were hoping to have 50 people attend. The day progressed with no incidents. People kept saying how glad they were that we were doing this and how grateful they were. And, yes it was fun. (For LGBT of Walworth County, it was a lot of work, but well worth the time and effort.) By the end of the day the attendance count was 168! (We built it; they did come.)
We are hoping that this year’s Pride Fair will be bigger and better. We have moved our venue to a larger, more visible (and well-known) area: Veteran’s Park – the “Square” in downtown Elkhorn. With the added space, we can offer more for teens and children (something for everyone). We are planning for a greater number of businesses, organizations, and vendors. Of course, that will require additional money. When all is said and done, our goal is to break even. The more donations we get from sponsors, the more we can do.
Please consider being a sponsor of Pride Fair 2018: “The Fair on the Square.” Your generosity (which will be visibly acknowledged) will help reach out to a community that wants to feel a part of Walworth County. Whatever you can give – be it items for raffle or money – will be greatly appreciated.
Also, we have plenty of room for vendors and organizations. We’d love to see you at the Fair to set up a table for the attendees, or help as a volunteer. A sponsorship form is included. Vendor and Volunteer forms are on our website, www.lgbtwalco.org
If you’ve questions, you can visit our website or call (262) 345-4286.
In 2017, we wanted be very clear about sending a message to the LGBTQ community and its allies, “You are not alone.” To that end, we wanted to have an event that brought together services, businesses, and organizations from rural Southeastern Wisconsin who were LGBTQ friendly. What better way to do it than to host a special fair that was free to attend? This fair would provide a consolidation of area businesses, where our community could go to get help and to find services. People would be able to get questions answered, see what was going on in Walworth County, find services of which they could make use, sample food from local vendors and groups, and socialize. All offered in a safe, relaxed environment.
We had 35 tents set up. We had legal organizations, churches, health care organizations, free on site AIDs testing, other advocacy groups, counselors, therapists, a live radio broadcast, food and craft vendors, raffles, and a gathering tent with a DJ. This was our “Field of Dreams.” We were hoping to have 50 people attend. The day progressed with no incidents. People kept saying how glad they were that we were doing this and how grateful they were. And, yes it was fun. (For LGBT of Walworth County, it was a lot of work, but well worth the time and effort.) By the end of the day the attendance count was 168! (We built it; they did come.)
We are hoping that this year’s Pride Fair will be bigger and better. We have moved our venue to a larger, more visible (and well-known) area: Veteran’s Park – the “Square” in downtown Elkhorn. With the added space, we can offer more for teens and children (something for everyone). We are planning for a greater number of businesses, organizations, and vendors. Of course, that will require additional money. When all is said and done, our goal is to break even. The more donations we get from sponsors, the more we can do.
Please consider being a sponsor of Pride Fair 2018: “The Fair on the Square.” Your generosity (which will be visibly acknowledged) will help reach out to a community that wants to feel a part of Walworth County. Whatever you can give – be it items for raffle or money – will be greatly appreciated.
Also, we have plenty of room for vendors and organizations. We’d love to see you at the Fair to set up a table for the attendees, or help as a volunteer. A sponsorship form is included. Vendor and Volunteer forms are on our website, www.lgbtwalco.org
If you’ve questions, you can visit our website or call (262) 345-4286.
