HISTORY

In 2003 Pride of the Greater Lehigh Valley (Pride GLV) created new programs for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and intersex (glbti) youth. As organizers Liz Sherry, Constance Kristofik, and Brad Wentz reflected on their lives as queer teens in the Lehigh Valley, they sought to encourage academic achievement, build self esteem and provide positive reinforcement for queer youth. With assistance from Carson Kressley, Eastern PA PFLAG, Metropolitan Community Church of the Lehigh Valley, educator Rachel Zane and other community leaders, the first Rainbow Scholarship award was awarded in June 2005. The scholarship amounts intend to increase as community involvement grows.

PURPOSE

The Rainbow Scholarship seeks to assist gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and intersex (glbti), college-bound teens with school expenses while increasing the positive visibility of queer youth and promoting awareness and acceptance in the community at large. To foster dialogue between administration, counselors, faculty and youth of secondary educational institutions regarding minority issues, there is an essay contest which is open to all students regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. In understanding that open and healthy communication is vital to the awareness and acceptance of diverse populations, we encourage everyone to participate.