Community

Chances of the winner of Mr Gay Canada 2012 being from Vancouver just got a whole lot better as organizers announced that those vying for the title this year includes five locals in its field of six.

Here is our annual list of ten individuals and groups that we think made a difference in Vancouver's LGBTQ community in 2011.

Citing an "autumn of organized, political attacks", the Board of Directors of Out On Screen is soliciting funds for its We Won't Be Bullied Fund to be earmarked to deal with expenses as a result of these recent attacks, and prepare for the future.

Last month British Columbia's Representative of Children and Youth released its own "It Gets Better" video, aimed at inspiring British Columbia's LGBTQ youth to focus on a positive future ahead.

December 1st is World AIDS Day.  AIDS Vancouver and other local organizations will play host to a number a number of World AIDS Day events to re-unite us in the fight against HIV, show support for those living with HIV and to remember those who have died.

Most of us are familiar with the concept of speed dating, but what about read dating? All is about to be revealed as the central branch of the Vancouver Public Library hosts a singles event for the LGBTQ community on December 1, 2011.

Art collectors will get their yearly chance to add to their collections as Friends For Life Society presents its 18th Art For Life on November 26, 2011.  With over 100 works of art donated by some of Vancouver’s top artists and galleries, the annual fundraiser is expected to raise over $200,000 for the charity.

On November 17, the Vancouver Mission of the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence will unveil portraits of its founding members by local artist John Ferrie in a fundraiser to continue the charitable work of the group.

The 2012 edition of the annual Dyke Vancouver Calendar is now available, with proceeds supporting the work of The Leaping Thespians, Vancouver's only lesbian theatre company.

For the second year in a row on October 20, Emery Barnes Park in Yaletown will be the scene of the Day of Purple rally to remember those youth that have committed suicide due to homophobic bullying.