My Nonprofit Reviews

I can not begin to imagine the last two years of my life without Equality Florida. My involvement started simply with my son asking me to sign up for their emails when we attended the first Manatee Pride. I started reading the materials sent to me. Something touched my soul in those emails and it became clear that as a straight ally, I had to become active in the movement to facilitate change. I witnessed the first legal same-sex marriage held on the lawn on the Manatee County Courthouse on January 6th, 2015, knowing Equality Florida was the legal force behind that day becoming a reality. I have volunteered at Pride events across the state to gather signatures to present to politicians to ensure equality in the workplace, housing and public space. June 12, 2016, Equality Florida took on a new role after the shooting at Pulse in Orlando. They became the voice of the LGBTQ heard across the nation and around the world. In an time when hate and vengeance could have been seen as a justified reaction to such a loss, they spoke out unified with a message of love, hope and change. In a time of grief and sorrow, they collectively showed strength and courage. They have put love into action. Since my introduction to the organization, my son has come out as gay. I could not think of better role models for him than the individuals I have met as staff, interns and volunteers at Equality Florida.