
Nebraska LGBTQ+ group builds community with 'friend raiser'
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The organization OutNebraska is holding an event not only to raise money for LGBTQ+ issues but to help people better understand the issues and their importance in the community.
The Classy-Tacky Ball is as much a "friendraiser" as a fundraiser. OutNebraska focuses on advocacy, education and celebration.
Abbi Swatsworth, executive director of OutNebraska, said the group sees the event as a chance to help community members be better allies for LGBTQ+ people and teach them how to be civically engaged.
"Whether that is through volunteering for boards or commissions, voting in elections, how to contact your policymakers, how to talk to your local school board," Swatsworth outlined. "Those sorts of things."
The event is scheduled for April 5 in Lincoln.
Swatsworth added efforts include speaking up where LGBTQ+ voices typically have not been heard and pointed out there are plenty of ways for people to get involved.
"That might look like phone banking or helping to recruit other volunteers, or helping community members connect with their elected officials," Swatsworth explained.
For those who may not be comfortable reaching out or being in public, Swatsworth noted OutNebraska also needs people to do data entry, tidy up the office and help staff the Pride events scheduled statewide this summer.