LGBTQ Community Gathers for 25th Anniversary Gala

The Pride Center of New Jersey celebrates its 25th Anniversary of service to New Jersey's LGBTQ community on Saturday, September 21, with their first annual gala, An Evening Out, at the Hyatt Regency in New Brunswick.

For 25 years, the Center has served as a welcoming, non-judgmental space for the state's LGBTQ community to find support, friendship, and resources. Over its 25-year history, the Center has evolved from a secret support group for gay men into a full-fledged community center with programs for everyone in the LGBTQ community.

The Center's President, Vic Schimmenti highlighted that "The Pride Center has been a lifeline for so many in the LGBTQ+ community. Whether it’s for our Youth Drop-In program, or other support or health education programming, free HIV testing or for social engagement, the Center continues to serve as a vital hub for New Jersey’s LGBTQ+ community."

Guests will be entertained by singer-songwriter and powerful vocalist Radha, who was featured on NBC's The Voice.

Radha says “It was natural for me to partner with The Pride Center since I believe in equal rights for people. Love shouldn’t have limits. Let’s celebrate change.” - RADHA

Governor Murphy and First Lady Tammy Snyder Murphy, unable to attend, will also offer their regards to gala-goers via a video message. Murphy has championed LGBTQ rights as governor, and has recognized community advancements with The Pride Center in the past, including at the Governor’s Pride Reception.

Governor Phil Murphy has been quoted as saying: “It is of the greatest importance that everyone feels accepted in New Jersey, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation.”
The event is sponsored by Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, online financial marketplace LendEDU, healthcare provider WellCare, and KP Edgestone Realty, among others. Fundraising Trustee Patricia Nagle said, "We are deeply grateful to our generous sponsors for supporting this event and our Center's vital work."

For more information, contact JEFFREY KAGAN, EVENTS@PRIDECENTER.ORG, 646-246-5598

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