This is a quick update about I’m From Driftwood, particularly about our successful Pride month in June.
I’m From Driftwood’s Honor Our Elders spotlight, in collaboration with GLAAD, SAGE, and the American LGBTQ+ Museum, resulted in half a million views on Instagram. Go check out I'm From Driftwood's Instagram Reels page to see the powerful stories that attracted so many views. It’s a testament to our community’s desire to hear stories from our Elders. Make sure to follow us while you’re there so you’ll see all the new 90-second versions of our stories as they’re shared.
On 5 June 2024, co-hosts Ralph Furlo and Jeff Curbo hosted an I’m From Driftwood fundraiser in Ralph's beautiful penthouse and rooftop in Chelsea. It was a great opportunity to introduce I’m From Driftwood to new supporters as well as raise some funds to support our work. Big thanks to Ralph, Jeff, and all the guests! That same week, I was also invited to give a presentation about I’m From Driftwood and the Power of Storytelling at both the Federal Reserve Bank of New York and BNP Paribas Bank.
I’m From Driftwood also welcomed Jessica Peña Torres to the team, who will be helping with Fund Development throughout the summer. We were introduced to Jessica through the University of Texas CONNECT fellowship program.
In Jessica's own words, "I'm thrilled to collaborate with I'm From Driftwood in their summer fundraising initiatives. I'm using my skills in grant writing and development to support their vital work. Together, we're working to ensure that more stories from the LGBTQIA+ community are heard and celebrated."
We have some exciting things coming up in August as well, I'll be sure to update you in the coming weeks.
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Nathan Manske, Founder, Executive Director