Local Teen Advocacy Group To Mark 20 Years With Benefit Gala

From Adolescent Counseling Services: Outlet, a program of Adolescent Counseling Services (ACS), a community-based nonprofit agency dedicated to the healthy social and emotional welfare of youth, will host its annual fundraising gala Out to Eat, on Friday, October 6, 2017 from 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. at the Oshman Family JCC in Palo Alto.

This years’ featured keynote speaker is Juan Barajas, a nationally known and respected LGBTQ+ movement leader who was one of Outlet’s first directors in 1999. He recently led fundraising efforts for Freedom to Marry, the campaign that won marriage nationwide for same-sex couples, and has raised more than $25 million to help advance legal protections and cultural acceptance for LGBT Americans. "Even in a time of nationwide marriage equality and in a region as progressive as the Bay Area, our LGBTQQ young people are still attacked and made to feel shame every day simply because of who they are,” Barajas said. “Outlet helps our youth feel safe, find support from their peers and caring adults, develop their confidence, and step into their power to help make our communities better for everyone."

Out to Eat will feature a raffle, hors d’oeuvres by local favorite Catered Too!, and speakers who will share their personal stories about the positive impact that Outlet has had on their lives. Tickets are $125 each, with reduced pricing available for young professionals and educational, government, or nonprofit employees. To learn more about the event or purchase tickets online, please visit here or call 650.424.0852 ext 105.

ACS is grateful to the sponsors whose generous support make Out to Eat possible. 2017 Sponsors include the El Camino Healthcare District and Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital.

Proceeds from Out to Eat benefit Outlet, a program of Adolescent Counseling Services.

Outlet offers support, leadership development, advocacy, and education to Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, or Questioning (LGBTQQ) youth and their allies. To learn more about ACS and Outlet, please visit here or call 650.424.0852.

Adolescent Counseling Services (ACS) exists to support the wellbeing of all teens, tweens, and young adults in Santa Clara and San Mateo Counties. Established in 1975, ACS’ networks of skilled family therapists and professionally-led support groups have continuously been a resource that youth and families can rely on. Trained professionals facilitate on-campus and after-school counseling, substance abuse treatment, LGBTQQ+ support services, and community education programs. ACS support youth to overcome obstacles, develop confidence and be empowered to build happy, healthy futures.

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