About Us
embrace Western New York
embrace Western New York is a local, non-profit organization comprised of LGBTQ+ and allies that are members of the Western New York community. A Board of Directors handles the philanthropic responsibilities of the organization. The 2024 members of embrace Western New York are: David M. Comstock, Bryan Ball, Ashley Litwin, Harry Carter, Jeffrey Moyer, John Stoddard, Gary Wilson, Katie Boyd, Sophie Gallivan & Tim Evanicki.
Our Mission
embrace Western New York is dedicated to equality and fairness within Western New York and seeks to raise awareness, understanding and acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community amongst all citizens.
Our Mission: through education all things are possible. Our Goals: to educate and support individuals and local organizations working towards equality for all New York State residents, especially in the LGBTQ+ community; developing the leadership potential of young adults from under-represented areas; assisting organizations in promoting a positive and affirming position; and strengthening local groups and organizations that are working towards full acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community.
Our Standard
The Board of embrace Western New York works hard to fulfill its mission of ‘through education all things are possible’. Fundraising locally and supporting locally allows us opportunity to raise awareness of the LGBTQ+ community while promoting equality and justice for all Western New Yorkers. Our major fundraiser, The Buffalo Brunch, is held each spring and honors those Western New Yorkers whose personal commitment reflects our own. Community Service Honorees include individuals, congregations and organizations.
embrace Western New York is pleased and honored to return monies to the Western New York community through Community Grants and Sponsorships, along with Educational Scholarships for our local college students. We offer a rolling application process so applications can be received throughout the year. Recognition of awards is given at The Buffalo Brunch.