Diversity Richmond & Virginia Pride announced that they plan to merge effective April 1st. By joining forces the organizations will make an even bigger, positive impact on the LGBTQ community & better fulfill their complementary missions. Stephanie Merlo President of Virginia Pride stated, “Virginia Pride enters into this merger with Diversity Richmond at a time when both organizations are thriving. In recent years, Virginia Pride has experienced exponential growth of our events, including an annual PrideFest that attracts more than 40,000 people & has seen the significant impact of our advocacy efforts to make the Richmond region a better place for LGBTQ people to live, work & visit. Merging with Diversity Richmond will ensure we continue to build on our legacy of success.” Luise “Cheezi” Farmer, Diversity Richmond Board President concluded, “By joining forces with Virginia Pride, we hope to take one & one & make three. We are confident that this merger will amplify the impact of the work of our organizations & allow us to better serve not just the LGBTQ community, but the entire Richmond Region.” The merger comes after years of significant growth of Virginia Pride & Diversity Richmond. Since 2015, Virginia Pride’s budget has increased by 500 percent & its impact through events & advocacy has increased substantially, straining its all-volunteer structure. The merger with Diversity Richmond will provide additional staff resources & organizational infrastructure that will support continued growth, increase community impact & sustain the work of VA Pride for years to come. The boards of directors of both organizations have approved the merger plan. The merger will become official as of April 1st 2021.
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