It began as a dream, became a reality and now we are gearing up for our Fourth Annual event in the Pines! Here is our story.
Trinity Place is a non-sectarian, 10-bed transitional shelter located in Trinity Lutheran Church, 164 West 100th Street, New York. Its mission is to help homeless lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or queer (LGBTQ) youth and young adults in New York City to safely transition out of the shelter system and grow into independent, positive, and productive adults. Through strong local community partnerships, we are able to provide access to comprehensive medical services, case management, education, career counseling, art classes, mental health services and more. The shelter is open all year to provide LGBTQ youth and young adults with a safe place to sleep, eat, store belongings, and have access to transportation. To learn more, visit www.trinityplaceshelter.org or call 212/222-7045.
The root of Love Shack took place in 2011 when I sought the support of two long-time friends, DJ Randy Bettis and choreographer Buddy Casimano, to launch the first party for Trinity Place Shelter in the Pines. In 2013, events producers Michael Metts, Alex Pacheco, and Brian Zignego joined the production committee. They have each made this all-volunteer run experience one of a kind. Designed to raise funds at every possible level, Love Shack is more than a dance party fundraiser. It is an event geared to bring awareness to members of the Pines community and others, while having auctions, with high profile items, raffles and house passes, which help to raise needed funding for the organization. The event is now part of the early summer calendar and many look forward to the event as a great way to start the season and give back to the Community. The official home for Love Shack on the internet is www.facebook.com/loveshackfundraiser.
Love Shack 4, on June 21 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Pines Pool and Bar, will once again feature the world famous talents of DJ Randy Bettis, who announced the event will close with a very special guest performance by Billboard recording artist Jason Walker. Throughout the pool party there will be a silent auction, raffles, and other fundraising activities; all to benefit Trinity Place.
Television personality, activist, and long-time Pines resident Robin Byrd will host a VIP reception this year to thank our Donors or supporters just prior to the event.
As an all-volunteer run event, Love Shack 3.0 in 2013 managed to keep expenses to $145.86 and netted $4,953.00 for the organization. We hope that 2014 will achieve over $5,000 while keeping our expenses again to a minimum; your contributions will make a difference!
Robin Byrd says it best: “What is there to say… everybody deserves a home.”
Tickets are available at www.trinityplaceshelter.org/loveshack. Advance general admission sales are currently at $30 ($35 day of event at door). Also available in advance are two distinct packages, both of which will include an invitation to a VIP toast and reception hosted by Robin Byrd. Love Shack 4 is co-sponsored by FIP Ventures, LLC and Centaur Entertainment. The Botel in the Pines is proud to be the event’s Host Hotel, offering discounts for the event—use code: TRINITY when booking.