At OUTright Youth of Catawba Valley (ORY), we believe strong communities are built when every young person is celebrated, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential. Our vision is to serve as a vehicle of change in this region—helping LGBTQ+ youth navigate adolescence and young adulthood in positive ways while educating others about the worth, value, and benefits of a diverse population.

Yet here in rural Western North Carolina, LGBTQ+ youth face disproportionate risks. Between book bans, “Don’t Say Gay” laws, and hostile legislation, they are four times more likely to attempt suicide than their peers and often endure bullying, rejection, and isolation—even in their own homes. The need is urgent and has only grown since ORY lost the federal funding that sustained us from the beginning.

Even with these challenges, ORY remains the only organization across five counties dedicated solely to LGBTQ+ youth and their allies. In the past year we welcomed over 1,000 youth visits, prevented suicides through direct intervention, and provided weekly support groups for middle school, high school, and young adults. Now we are expanding our reach through allyship workshops, after-school hours, and satellite youth group meetings—ensuring that every LGBTQ+ young person in our region can find affirming resources and community.

Your sponsorship makes this possible. As a sponsor, you will keep life-saving programs running each week, help prevent youth suicide, and create safer, more welcoming schools and neighborhoods. Your investment tells LGBTQ+ you (and the families, peers, and educators who support them) that they are valued and never alone.

Join us. Become a sponsor and help every young person in our region not just survive, but thrive.

gā•la: True Colors Sponsorship Levels

Corporate and Community Partner Levels (scroll below for details)