SOS Pride hosting fun gala event

From youth group hangouts to grownup dance parties, the South Okanagan Similkameen Pride Society is out to make a difference in the community.

“Advocating for youth and education, bringing awareness on gender issues, these are some of the more serious and important things we do,” said SOSPride communications director Karen Davy.

“Holding the dance parties is a way for us to thank our members, allies and board members for their support throughout the year plus fundraise for education and awareness programs.”

RADAR, a safe space drop-in program for LGBT2Q+ youth ages 13 and 18 and their allies, is co-sponsored by SOSPride, along with Recreation Penticton and YES Project. The program is held every Tuesday at the Penticton Library Auditorium from 3:30-5 p.m.

“To be able to help create this space for these kids is so rewarding and important. I know a lot of folks in our community who would have loved to have had a place like this to hang out at when they were growing up,” said Shalyn Norrish, SOSPride youth director.

Another community event SOSPride is hosting is the Halloween Fling, Saturday, Oct. 21, at the Royal Canadian Legion Hall in Penticton.

Like the Spring Fling held in May, there will be two drag show performances throughout the night.

“The performers were so entertaining and everyone had such fun last time, we knew we had to invite them back,” said Davy.

Tickets are $25 for members and $30 for non-members, and available from White Lioness Metaphysics at 101- 419 Main St. and Okanoggin Barbers at 254 Ellis St.

South Okanagan Similkameen Pride Society proudly serves the LGBTQI+ community by providing safe, quality events, promoting education and awareness, supporting all across the gender spectrum inclusive of family, friends and allies

For more information please visit SOSPride on Facebook or email info@sospride.ca.