Christopher's 44th Birthday TOY Fundraiser

Welcome to my fundraising page for Time Out Youth! During these challenging times, it's more important than ever to remember how strong our community is and how much we can achieve together. Time Out Youth (TOY) has been a shining light of hope and support for LGBTIQ+ youth in Charlotte, offering vital services and programs that truly make a positive difference in their lives.

Call to Action

As political pressure increases, many companies are reassessing their commitments to equity and inclusion. This has created a $175,000 gap in their budgets — funds that should come from companies that truly value DEI. While it’s frustrating to see corporate cowardice at this moment, it also reminds us that finding a sense of belonging is fundamentally about community, the strong support of one another. When companies step back, will you be the one to step up? I know I am! Your support genuinely makes a difference for LGBTIQ+ youth. They need action, consistency, and above all, they need you.

For My 44th Birthday, Support Time Out Youth

I am aiming to raise at least $4,400 to help close the $175,000 budget gap at TOY. The funds raised serve Charlotte's LGBTIQ+ youth! TOY provides essential programs and services that focus on strengthening mental health outcomes, supporting individuals in securing stable housing, and offering fun and safe social programs for community support.

Impact of Your Contribution

Your support can significantly improve the lives of many LGBTIQ+ youth. Here’s how your donation makes a difference:

1. $5 Gift: Your $5 gift will go toward removing barriers for young people who need help with transportation to and from work and housing appointments.
2. $10 Gift: Your $10 gift will go toward supporting the Life Essential Closet, a program that provides short-term relief and supports them in gaining their independence.
3. $25 Gift: Your $25 gift will go toward providing youth proper access to healthy and stable food options, often a scarcity when experiencing chronic houselessness.
4. $50 Gift: Your $50 gift will allow us to offer therapy at no cost to youth, particularly those who do not have health insurance or who are experiencing barriers to care.
5. $100 Gift: Your $100 gift will provide gift cards and direct aid to youth in need of emergency funds.
6. $250 Gift: Your $250 gift will go toward helping move youth into housing after experiencing long-term homelessness

Last year, TOY proudly provided a range of meaningful services to young people across Charlotte and its surrounding areas. Over 1,400 visits to their drop-in space demonstrate the need for it, and they have successfully helped 37 youth find stable housing. They also offered 576 counseling sessions to support and uplift young lives. TOY’s exciting programming included events like Prom and Juneteenth celebrations, along with support groups such as Melanin and MagiQ, Tea Time, and Space Aces. They even welcomed new groups, such as Dungeons and Dragons. One highlight was hosting a full-day, sold-out Carolinas Conference on Queer Youth, dedicated to helping youth-serving staff better support LGBTIQ+ young people in the Carolinas. Your generous support makes it all possible, allowing us to continue this important and impactful work.

Personal Story

Growing up, I didn’t have a place like Time Out Youth to turn to. I genuinely understand how lonely and challenging it can be to face the world without a safe space where you belong. Centers like this are so important—they can be lifesavers. They offer a welcoming place where LGBTIQ+ youth can feel comfortable being themselves, find support, and escape judgment or discrimination. Your support makes a real difference, helping ensure that LGBTIQ+ youth in our community have the resources and encouragement they need to flourish.

Thank You

Thanks so much for considering a gift to Time Out Youth! Every bit helps and truly makes a difference in the lives of LGBTIQ+ youth in our community. I hope you will help make my 44th birthday a memorable one!