by Lorie Lewis Ham
The Source LGBT+ Center’s 2nd Annual Halloween Gala, presented by Tucoemas Federal Credit Union, will be taking place on October 23. It is their fresh and inclusive update of the traditional nonprofit fundraising gala. The purpose of the gala is to raise funds to sustain operations of The Source LGBT+ Center in Visalia, which is one of the nation’s fastest growing LGBTQ+ centers. Recently we chatted with their director of Development and Strategy, Nick Vargas, to learn more.
KRL: What all will be happening at the gala?
Nick: Heartwarming stories that show the impact of The Source. Food, drinks, drag shows, live and silent auctions, plus a costume contest and an escape room to solve with your table or group at home. It will be both in person and virtual (hybrid event). 
KRL: Does everyone have to come in costume?
Nick: No. Costumes not required.
KRL: I understand that people will have the ability to fundraise on their own or with someone else to earn their way into the gala and earn additional valuable prizes-how does that work?
Nick: Form a team of 2 to 8 people and raise at least $125 a person. A team of 8 would raise $1000. The more a team raises, the more they earn (see mightycause.com/event/Halloweengala2021/tab/Prize-Tiers#page-tabs).
KRL: What are some of the programs that you will be fundraising for?
Nick: Youth programs, HIV, and the center itself. We will be announcing the purchase of a new campus in downtown Visalia by the time you print this article. Funds will support having a permanent, visible, and sizeable center for generations to come.
KRL: What is the date and time of the event?
Nick: October 23, 5:30-6:30 p.m. is the cocktail reception and 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. is the programs. Escape room is 8 p.m. – 9 p.m.
KRL: I understand that there will also be a way to attend virtually.
Nick: People can tune in anywhere with an internet connection and see the same program as the in-person audience. They can also chat, bid in the live auction, participate in costume the contest, and escape room.
KRL: Where will the event be taking place in person?
Nick: Bello Vita Venue in Visalia.
KRL: Will there be any special Covid safety protocols in place?
Nick: People who attend in person must be vaccinated or provide a negative Covid test taken within 72 hours of the event start time. Volunteers and event staff in masks.
KRL: How much are tickets and where can they be purchased?
Nick: $125 on our website www.thesourcelgbt.org/gala
KRL: Anything else you would like to add?
Nick: We are also in need of silent auction items: baskets, gift certificates, trips, etc.
KRL: Where can people find and follow the Source online?
Nick: FB and IG @thesourcelgbt and for our younger people we have a Discord channel as well.
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