Benton Harbor, MI The OutCenter of Benton Harbor today announced it will host a golf and dinner event at Harbor Shores on June 17, 2011. Proceeds from the event will support the OutCenter in its vision of creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all Southwest Michigan residents, including the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and allied communities.
Tickets are still available to the landmark OutOuting event, featuring an 18-hole golf outing followed by a tent event with live entertainment, local cuisine, and a silent auction. Visit www.outouting.com for more information.
The OutCenter plans to use funds raised from the event to continue services such as its adult support group and diversity trainings; to provide cultural events such as OutFilm and Lake Effect Pride; and to increase youth support initiatives for high school-age students who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, questioning or allies.
"When we provide a safe and nurturing environment for our younger generations we are one step closer to achieving real change," says Jen Hsu, executive director of the OutCenter.
KitchenAid brand is the flagship sponsor for this year's event. KitchenAid is part of Whirlpool Corporation, which is recognized as a top company for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender employees.
Additional event sponsors include Abonmarche, Evergreen Development, Hanson Group, JohnsonRauhoff, Lakeland HealthCare, Modern Dentistry, Perry Ballard, and Professional Corporate Intelligence. Spirits are sponsored by The Round Barn Winery, while the menu will be jointly catered by The Ideal Place, Schu's Bar and Grille, and Timothy's Restaurant at Gordon Beach.
As community support continues to grow, corporate support from companies like Whirlpool help the OutCenter to gain a broader professional platform. Former CEO of Whirlpool Corporation, Dave Whitwam has been a strong supporter of diversity with inclusion within the company and across our communities. "While at Whirpool it was critical that the leadership of the company engage our employees in the importance of diversity in the workplace, as well as creating an environment without barriers, so that all employees could contribute to the fullest of their capabilities. Today Whirlpool is acknowledged as a leader in Human rights. I also believe our communities are breaking down the barriers to full inclusion for all of our citizens."
As an arm of Whirlpool's initiative toward diversity with inclusion, Whirlpool's Pride Network has aimed to create LGBT awareness within the corporate atmosphere of Whirlpool. The network envisions Whirlpool as a top company for LGBT employees and has helped to achieve a perfect score on the Human Rights Campaign's Corporate Equality Index each year since 2004.
The mission of the OutCenter is to provide support to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and allied persons and families, and to advocate for greater understanding and respect throughout Berrien County. Located at 132 Water Street, Benton Harbor, the OutCenter is open Wednesday Friday from 1pm to 5pm, and Saturday from 10am to 2pm. For more information or to become a volunteer, please visit www.outcenter.org,
call 269-925-8330, or email inquiries at info@outcenter.org .