 |
The mission of GALAS is to foster acceptance and promote
equality of its gay, lesbian, bi-sexual, and transgender
membership by empowering the members and enriching their
lives.
History
GALAS was formed in 1998 by a number of gay, lesbian, bisexual,
and transgendered Armenians who were looking for friendship,
support, and a sense of belonging in the community. Informal
at first, the group gradually developed into a more structured
organization. The first step involved holding regularly-scheduled
monthly meetings at a fixed location rather than the coffee
house gatherings that started it all. Soon after, committees
were created to help fulfill members’ desires for a schedule
of activities.
The first large event was the Halloween Dance in October
1998. In January 1999, GALAS held its first election to fill
the seven seats on the newly created Board of Directors and
the members ratified the original GALAS Bylaws. In the summer
of that year, GALAS celebrated its first anniversary, with
a gala, which has grown into a yearly tradition. The website
went online in 2000 and the reach of GALAS immediately expanded.
Similar organizations soon began forming in cities worldwide.
In August 2001, GALAS became incorporated. Soon after, by-laws
were adopted, which led to the organization’s non-profit status
in March 2002.
What We Do
- Hold monthly general meetings.
- Create a supportive environment to help one another in
our emotional, spiritual, cultural, and professional growth.
- Organize a wide array of activities and events.
- Sustain our group activities through collection of tax-deductible
membership dues, fundraising events, activities and donations.
- Offer student scholarships and psychotherapy services.
How We Work
GALAS is governed by a board of seven to
nine members elected in June of each year. Additionally,
committees are formed to achieve the following goals:
- Community Outreach
- Fundraising
- Social networking
Committees 2007-2008
- Educational Resources Committee
- Public Relations Committee
- Activities/Cultural Committee
- GALA Committee
|
|
