News & Press

Manatee Pride and Project Pride SRQ Announce “Suncoast Pride”

ALSO Youth, a local non-profit organization serving the LGBTQ+ youth community in Sarasota & Manatee Counties, and Project Pride SRQ have agreed to combine resources to present “Suncoast Pride” for 2024. The Suncoast Pride event will replace separate “Sarasota Pride” and “Manatee Pride” events that occurred in 2023, building on the vision to unite the LGBTQ+ community in both counties.

Suncoast Pride will include many of the same features of previous Pride events: music and entertainment, food trucks, art & craft vendors, and much more. The new festival’s purpose is for all to stand together, celebrate unity and diversity, and spread the message of love and acceptance.

Suncoast Pride will be held on Saturday October 19, 2024. The location of the event will be announced later this year. Sponsorships and vendor information will be made available through Project Pride SRQ website: www.ppsrq.org

About ALSO Youth: For over 30 years, ALSO Youth has been providing Advocacy, Leadership, Support, & Outreach to LGBTQ+ youth, their allies, and families. We provide these services through youth center programming, community partnerships, education, mental health counseling, and outreach in both Sarasota and Manatee County. We strive to create an accepting and nurturing community where our youth live, study, work, and play by dedicating our focus to ending all forms of violence, bullying, harassment, and discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity.

About Project Pride SRQ: Our Mission is to expand awareness and understanding of the LGBTQ+ community by creating strategic partnerships with local organizations, businesses, and governments toward a shared goal. Our Vision: An all-inclusive community where everyone is equally united, supported and celebrated.

Bradenton Herald: Manatee County officials deny funding to LGBTQ+ program for kids’ mental health

Executive Director, Becky McDonough, sits down with the Bradenton Herald to discuss Manatee County officials voting to block funding for mental health counseling program for LGBTQ children in the Bradenton area.

SPM.alsoprom2023.eventphotos-2.jpg

Sarasota OUT: ALSO Youth Prom - A Night of Fun, Dancing, and Inclusion

On February 18th, 2023, ALSO Youth held its annual Prom at the Sarasota Municipal Auditorium, and it was a night to remember. The event was a huge success!

Suncoast View: Providing a safe space for LGBTQ+ members at Also Youth

Executive Director, Becky McDonough, speaks with Suncoast View about ALSO Youth's services and upcoming event, Give OUT Day.

ABC7: Open hearts and safe spaces for LGBTQ people at ALSO Youth, Trinity Church MCC

Olivia Tooker, ALSO Youth Program Manager, speaks to ABC7 in reaction to the recent spike in LGBTQ+ issues nationwide.

Prog Flag Square.png

As LGBTQ+ Floridians face new threats, locals point to education. ‘Language is so important’

Our Outreach Coordinator, Christine, speaks on the importance of education and inclusivity regarding LGBTQ+ language.

Becky McDonough Headshot.jpg

ALSO Youth Names New Executive Director

ALSO Youth introduces our new Executive Director, Dr. Becky McDonough.

pronouns.jpg

Sarasota County school guidelines on gender issues under review as new law is signed

Under the bill signed by the governor this week, parents would be notified anytime a student wishes to be called by a gender pronoun that differs from their birth sex.

PRIDE Patch.png

Manatee Pride Brings LGBTQ Community Together In Bradenton

Hundreds of members of the LGBTQ+ community and their allies gathered for Manatee Pride, hosted Saturday at Bradenton Riverwalk by ALSO Youth.

Pride crowd.jpg

Manatee County holds 7th annual PRIDE celebration

Manatee Pride brings out more than a thousand people every year. Many have said the celebration is needed now more than ever.

DSG.jpg

Sarasota's LGBTQ community waves 700-foot pride flag in opposition to 'Don't Say Gay' bill

Hundreds of LGBTQ residents and their supporters rallied and waved a 700-foot LGBTQ pride flag over the Ringling Bridge in Sarasota Sunday in opposition to Florida's 'Don't Say Gay' bill.

Just Dance: Inclusive Organizations Bring Fashion and Prom to LGBTQ Youth

ALSO Youth will be hosting their annual prom this February. ALSO Prom provides a safe space for LGBTQ+ youth to express themselves and connect with other youth.

DSC09283-Edit_jdwueo.jpg

Mary Tavarozzi Gives LGBTQ Youth a Place to Socialize

ALSO Youth's president, Mary Tavarozzi, awarded the Unity Award by Sarasota Magazine

“I wanted to make sure Florida youth didn’t become a statistic in terms of self-harm or addiction or homelessness. I want them to know they can live life out and proud here.”

AlsoJr_logo 2021.png

ALSO Youth launches ALSO, Jr.

Watermark article about the launch of our new Junior program for LGBTQ+ Youth, ages 10-12.

Read More

Subscribe to our newsletter

to stay up-to-date with events & more!