Sam's 2026 Fundraiser to Power NWA Pride

As a new member of the Board of Directors for NWA Equality, I’m proud to be raising funds to help power NWA Pride and support the year-round work that makes it possible.

Over the last three years, I’ve had the privilege of being deeply involved in NWA Equality’s programming. I lead our peer support program and serve as Chair of the Transgender Advisory Group, helping create spaces for connection, dialogue, and community-building. In these roles, I’ve spent hundreds of hours in conversation with LGBTQ community members and allies—hearing stories about what it means to search for belonging, to practice authenticity, and to hold onto joy. I’ve come to see just how much it matters when we’re supported and cherished as valued members of this community.

NWA Pride is one of the most visible expressions of that work. Each year, more than 40,000 people gather for NWA Pride Weekend, the largest celebration of the LGBTQ community in Arkansas. It’s a powerful expression of everything that community makes possible: visibility, belonging, and the celebration of queer joy.

Especially right now, that kind of joy and visibility truly matters. It reminds us that we belong here. That we are seen. That we are cherished.

I’m giving to power NWA Pride this year because I believe deeply in what becomes possible when LGBTQ people have spaces to come together, be visible, and feel the strength of community around them.

I invite you to give what you can and be part of making it possible.