Courage MKE announced a new campaign today, #ProudlyTogether, that benefits local organizations that are LGBTQ+ and POC-serving that have been impacted by Covid-19.

The fundraising campaign plans to raise $50,000 via community support to support five organizations that have worked in recent months to ensure the Milwaukee community receives needed services, including mental health programming, HIV education and housing resources.  

"COVID-19’s unanticipated effects have resulted in at least an additional $60,000 dollars in expenses for our organization," said Courage MKE Executive Director, Brad Schalikowski. "We know we are not alone in this, so we asking the community to unite with us in supporting the many LGBTQ+ serving organizations affected."

All money raised will be divided equally among these five organizations:

• Diverse & Resilient 
• LGBT Community Center 
• Courage MKE 
• Our Voices Milwaukee 
• Pathfinders 

This video was created as part of the #ProudlyTogether campaign launch and features the vocal talents of Jen Porter, Tyler Hall and Our Voice Milwaukee, along with positive pride message photos from hundreds of Milwaukeeans.

To kick-off the campaign, a match challenge has been set up for the first $5,000 raised thanks to the generosity of Jesse Mendelsohn, Dr. Anthony Procelli, Sean Sullivan and Chris Francis. 

"While pride in Milwaukee may look a little different this year, Courage MKE is encouraged by the LGBTQ+ community’s strong advocacy for social justice and interest in supporting the community," says Schlaikowski.

To donate click here, noting #ProudlyTogether on your donation.