September Newsletter

Written By Sarah Schad

The LOVELOUD Foundation Community Ambassador Program

We are so excited to announce that LOVELOUD is taking steps toward a new initiative that expands our impact at the local level. With the introduction of the Community Ambassador Program, college students will be taking on community service projects in their community that align with their interests and the needs of the area. Leadership development is a key component of this project, as students will be supported by the LOVELOUD team as they progress in their journey of activism. 

The pilot of the Community Ambassador Program will begin in our home of Salt Lake City, UT with the University of Utah. We are so grateful to those who have signed up and are eager to see what we can cultivate through this collective effort toward community care. 

Are you a University of Utah student and want to participate in this opportunity? Do you run an organization in the area that could use some extra support? Email us at partnerships@loveloudfest.com to get connected.

LOVELOUD Book Club: Presented by Open Books

September Pick: Hani and Ishu’s Guide to Fake Dating by Abida Jaigirdar

September is here and so is our next book club pick, Hani and Ishu’s Guide to Fake Dating by Abida Jaigirdar. Rated a 4.07 on GoodReads, this novel follows Hani who has found herself in what started out as a fake relationship to prove to her friends that she is bi. Over time, Hani and Ishu begin to develop real feelings for one another. Hani and Ishu’s Guide to Fake Dating explores themes of racism, biphobia, and familial relationships through an accessible and engaging storyline.

Nonprofit feature: The Welman Project - Fort Worth, TX

Fall has made its return once again - another season of transition and new beginnings. It’s around this time that the kiddos return to school and teachers begin preparing to make this year one of enrichment and accessible learning for their students. It’s no secret that teachers are often underpaid for their labor and even have to buy supplies for their classroom from their own savings on occasion. 

An innovative nonprofit based out of Fort Worth, Texas called The Welman Project has served as an oasis for many, many educators from across the United States over the years. The team at Welman regularly process donations that are given back to educators (and away from landfills) in many domains at no cost. Some common materials that are up for grabs include:

  • Art supplies

  • Decor

  • Books

  • Teaching resources

  • Furniture 

The Welman Project is currently a finalist in the Environmental Stewardship category for the 2025 .ORG Impact Awards, which “recognizes an organization or individual leading the way in protecting our planet, promoting sustainability, and inspiring communities to create a healthier, more resilient future.”

The Welman Project also hosts a banned book club and queer craft nights for community members. If you’re interested in picking something up from The Welman Project for your own classroom, you simply need to be employed at any accredited public or charter school regardless of location. Private schools that file a 990 are also eligible. PTA and PTO programs can also sign up for membership on behalf of their school.  Nonprofit and government organizations may also apply for membership. 

September 22, 1991 – First International Day of Solidarity with Queer Prisoners

September 22, 1991 marked the first International Day of Solidarity with Queer Prisoners, highlighting the struggles faced by LGBTQ+ people in prison systems around the world. This day serves to raise awareness about the unique challenges that LGBTQ+ individuals face behind bars, including violence, discrimination, and inadequate healthcare. It is part of a larger movement for prison reform and the fight against incarceration as a tool of marginalization.

Support Our Work | Grab Some Merch

Buy some merch, Support our work and be a part of give support to LGBTQ+ charities around the nation.

OUR MISSION: Ignite the vital conversation about what it means to unconditionally love, understand, support, accept, and celebrate our LGBTQ+ friends and family.

Sarah Schad
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August Newsletter