TOY seeks volunteers

CHARLOTTE — Time Out Youth is currently searching for volunteers to staff its 20th Anniversary Gala Weekend, June 10-13.

The highlight of the weekend is a gala fundraiser, an evening honoring what Time Out Youth has done and continues to do to strengthen the community.

On June 11, Glam, an alternative prom for youth, is slated as part of the festivities.

Sponsors, either individual or corporate, are also needed for their platinum event.

The organization is also co-sponsoring the premier of “Rent” on May 12 at Theatre Charlotte. Appetizers, dessert and a silent auction are being planned. Volunteers are needed between 5:30-10 p.m. Complimentary tickets for another show will be made available to those who serve.

For more information, email volunteers@timeoutyouth.org or visit timeoutyouth.org.
— Lainey Millen

Couples wed in D.C.

CHARLOTTE — Seven couples spent the weekend of April 1-3 in the nation’s capital while they tied the knot with family, friends and clergy as witnesses.

The couples were forced to travel to D.C. for their ceremonies because North Carolina does not recognize marriages by same-sex couples. An anti-gay constitutional amendment proposed in the state Senate would make such a ban more stringent, banning recognition of “domestic legal union” by same-sex couples, including civil unions, marriages and domestic partnerships.

The ceremonies were officiated by Rev. Nancy Ellett Allison of Holy Covenant United Church of Christ, Rabbi Judy Schindler of Temple Beth El and Rev. Robin Tanner of Piedmont Unitarian Universalist Church.

Several other local congregations supported the initiative, including Pilgrim Congregational UCC of Charlotte, Unitarian Universalist Church of Charlotte, Unity Fellowship Church Charlotte and Wedgewood Baptist Church. Sponsoring organizations included RAIN, Time Out Youth, attorney Connie J. Vetter and the Human Rights Campaign.

On April 4, a special “Celebratory Champagne Toast” was held. During the event, Rev.Jay Leach, along with Rev. Dr. Chris Ayers and others, blessed and toasted the couples upon their return.
— Matt Comer