Pride Is Powered by Volunteers: Celebrating the Heart of Our Community

Dear Community,

Why do you volunteer? 

I asked this at a recent Community Building Workshop & Pride Planning Meeting, and answers ranged from building community, to fighting back, to seeing fabulous outfits, to supporting the causes they care about. When seasoned volunteers were asked why they keep coming back—or why they stepped up into leadership roles—they shared stories of feeling welcomed, appreciated, and personally invited to return.

Everyone’s volunteer journey is different, but the common thread is connection: a desire to be part of something bigger, to contribute to the movement, and to find community. Many have discovered new friends, found chosen family, and deepened their sense of purpose while volunteering with Pride. Volunteering isn’t just something we do in our spare time—it builds community and helps shape a better world. As Audre Lorde said, “Without community, there is no liberation.”

This year, we’re seeing a huge increase in the number of volunteers signing up for Pride Week. I’m so excited and incredibly grateful to witness so many people stepping up to get involved. While I’d love to take credit, this surge reflects the power of our community and the incredible work of our lead volunteers and team. It also shows the deep desire people have to come together and stand strong in the face of oppression.

We cannot do this alone.

Next week is Volunteer Appreciation Week, and we want to celebrate our amazing volunteers. To every person who has given their time to build this movement—thank you. You strengthen our foundation, lift our spirits, and show us the meaning of Unbreakable Pride and Unshakeable Power. If you’ve volunteered with us, take time for some extra self-care and celebration this week. And if you know someone who volunteers, show them some love—maybe with a treat, a thank-you, or a simple shout-out.

We all need rest, motivation, and each other. Knowing that so many people are willing to show up and contribute to our Festival, Parade, Pride Week, and year-round programs gives me hope—and the energy to keep going.

Feeling inspired to get more involved? Whether you’re brand new to volunteering or ready to grow into a leadership role, we have plenty of opportunities coming up. You’ll find more info below—we’d love to have you join us.

Thank you for everything you bring to our movement. 💖

With appreciation,

Linda Glevy

[pronouns: she/they]

Volunteer, Event, and Access Coordinator