Center reviews grants, donors at meeting

The William Way LGBT Community Center’s board held its third public meeting of the year July 22 at 1315 Spruce St.

All the board members were in attendance as well as executive director Chris Bartlett.

Director of center services Candice Thompson reported that the center received a substantial grant from the William Penn Foundation, which is being used to renovate the center’s archive space. The organization is currently with architects and engineers regarding plans for expanding the archive. The center is also looking to hire a part-time archivist.

Development director Michael Pomante said the center received 43 new sustainers — people who give to the center on a monthly basis — since April, and that so far sustainers have contributed $12,920 in additional funds to the center over the course of the year. It was also reported that on July 2, the center submitted a proposal to the Delaware Valley Legacy Fund for a $10,000 foundation grant to be used for an anti-violence campaign.

Upcoming events include the OutBeat Jazz Festival, Sept. 18-21, and the Indigo Ball on Oct. 25, for which 25 of 35 tables are already reserved. Liquor and spirits donations have already been acquired.

Board co-chair Jeff Sotland reported that the center has also already secured the National Constitution Center for the Oct. 10, 2015, edition of the ball, which will mark the center’s 40th anniversary.

Board treasurer Kim Keegan said the center reported a total income of $78,515.04 for the month of June, surpassing the projected income of $71,373. An increase in individual giving was credited for the surplus. Building and grant income were slightly above expectations as well.

Total expenses for the center for the month of June were reported at $61,398, with expected expenses at $58,125. The overage in budgeted expenses was attributed to higher-than-expected general operating and personnel expenses.

Board member Jocelyn Block reported the board will meet in September to address nominations for new board members. Sotland added that the center is always looking for individuals who are interested in joining.

Board member Rudy Flesher reported that the center’s programming committee is seeking pro-bono consulting to evaluate the center’s programs.

For more information, visit www.waygay.org.

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