2 November 2009 - {also} forges ahead in tough times

Following on from recent reports about its financial health, the {also} Board wishes to reassure members and the wider queer community that despite experiencing a tough year as a result of the broader financial climate, the organisation is operationally sound.

“We are not alone amongst NGOs impacted by the global downturn. The board of management acknowledged half way though last financial year that with the withdrawal of major sponsors and reduction in donations it would deliver a deficit, and made very conscious decisions forged by its unwavering commitment to {also}’s aims and vision”, President Jason Rostant said.

However budget pressures will require a firm hand on the purse strings as {also} prepares to celebrate 30 years in the community in 2010. Interim CEO, Kylie Smith said, “We look forward to inviting the many community organisations that {also} has helped give life to, to join with us to celebrate 30 years of the vibrant, active and passionate queer community that we have seen blossom together.

“We have much to be proud of, but with the absence of core government funding the continued work of {also} is only possible with the generous support of the community and the re-engagement of our corporate sponsors post the GFC.

“We welcome one-off donations and membership at our website, but you can also become an Everyday Hero for the LGBTI community by starting your own fundraising page at www.everydayhero.com.au and choosing “also” as your favourite charity. “Whether for special occasions, fun runs, Christmas, birthdays or even commitment ceremonies, putting {also} on your gift list will make a real difference in LGBTI peoples’ lives”, Ms Smith said.

For more details how you can {also} be part of the story and help celebrate 30 years of your queer community, jump onto our website at www.also.org.au

Current {also} projects include, but are not limited to:

With Respect Awareness Project (WRAP)
A collaboration between {also}, TransGender Victoria, VGLRL, the Anti-Violence Project and Victoria Police and aims to: - reduce the incidence of homophobic harassment in Victoria by changing community attitudes & behaviours; - increasing the capacity of LGBTI people to respond to homophobic harassment and encourage incident reporting.

Living Longer Living Stronger
In collaboration with the City of Yarra, the Council on the Ageing, and Bendigo Bank, {also} is running a six month program of strength training activities to assist LGBTI seniors to enjoy a more independent and active lifestyle, both now and into the future.

Take Care {out} There
An innovative community engagement program aimed at developing a LGBTI health promotion culture. Focused on sexual health for queer Victorians, it’s overarching aim is to enhance the environments in which our communities work rest and play, so that our community has the knowledge, ability and confidence to take care of themselves and those around them.

Youth Transitional Housing Service
{also}’s ALSORTS Youth House was initiated in 2005 to address the needs of homeless same sex attracted youth (SSAY), not always well addressed by the existing service system. Over the years, many young people have benefited greatly from the project. Additionally {also} has played in important role in advocating for improved recognition and responses to the other needs of same sex attracted youth.

The {also} Fabulous Op-Shop
Now in it’s third year, {also}’s Smith Street op-shop has been an overwhelming success. It functions as a grassroots community presence providing a human touchpoint for {also}, benefits that far outweigh its financial achievements.
Additionally, it provides an opportunity for both volunteers and the wider LGBTI community to support {also} by contributing their time or simply donating items from last season’s wardrobe.

about {also}
{also} is a not for profit charitable community organisation that works to enhance the lives of Victoria's diverse lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex communities. Our vision is the creation and celebration of a diverse, strong, safe and inclusive community that contributes to and is respected by broader communities. We exist to CELEBRATE, ADVOCATE, LEAD and INVEST in our community.

Further media information contact:
Jason Rostant at the {also} Foundation
M 0414 935 692 or T. 9660 3900
E. president@also.org.au