IT GETS BETTER

[IT GETS BETTER]

“If you want to do Pride at your high school, you should be able to do it.” 🏳️‍🌈

 Audy Mcdonald & Jessie Funes McDonald, a couple in Santa Maria, California, have made it a point to be out and visible in their community for kids who don’t often see themselves represented. 

 The couple brought the first Pride parade to their town and established HOPE (House of Pride and Equality) where they mentor individuals like Fernando (featured in the video.) 

Their mentorship allowed Fernando to come out to his friends and family and he went on to organize his high school’s first Pride week! 

Thank you, Audy and Jessie! 

[IT GETS BETTER]

Richard Ayoub is the Executive Director of Project Angel Food, a nonprofit that began during the AIDS crisis to feed the critically ill. 

 Now, Project Angel Food has expanded its reach to serve additional populations, including COVID-19 patients. 

 In a time when human connection is nearly impossible to come by, Richard and his team, including Brent Webster, deliver meals and (socially distant) interaction to our most isolated community members. They are currently working on securing additional funding, with a goal to serve every single person on their waitlist. 

[IT GETS BETTER]

Nothing can stop Lark Doolan from helping his students reach their full potential–not even a pandemic. 

This IDAHOBIT we’re recognizing Principal and Superintendant Lark Doolan as a Queer Hero for creating a safe space for LGBTQ+ young people year-round and in this increased time of need! 

When news of COVID-19 first hit, Doolan, a Principal and Superintendent, worked to mobilize staff in order to get food and supplies to his students, many of whom live in a food desert. But working overtime for his students is nothing new for Doolan, just ask Teacher Tess Yinger. She says Doolan has made her school a safe haven for students and teachers alike. 

 Thank you, Lark Doolan, for being a Queer Hero!