Press release

ALSO Youth welcomes 2026-27 Board of Directors

For immediate release

L-r: Former Board Member Scott Swan, Executive Director Annie Berkness, Former Board Member, Craig Kaplan, Youth Programs Manager Jamie Smith and Board Vice President Renee Autumn Ray.

, October 28, 2026. SARASOTA, FL (Oct. 28, 2026) — ALSO Youth, a Sarasota-Manatee nonprofit empowering LGBTQ+ youth and allies to build inclusive communities, announced its Board of Directors for the 2026-27 term, including new Board Member Seth Marcantel.

Marcantel brings more than two decades of experience in storytelling, marketing and communications. He moved to Sarasota in 2016 to work in communications for Sarasota County Government. His career has spanned television news, public affairs at NASA, local government and media technology.

For Marcantel, ALSO Youth's mission is personal. Growing up a gay teen in a small Southern community, he learned how much it matters to feel like you belong. The adults who supported him during those years inspired him to be that person for someone else.

"I know firsthand what it means for a young person to have adults in their corner," said Marcantel. "ALSO Youth gives young LGBTQ+ people a place where they are seen and valued, and I'm honored to help the organization tell that story and reach even more youth and families across our region."

The organization also recognized two departing board members. Beth Roth, who first joined ALSO Youth as a volunteer in 2022, completes three years of board service. Craig Kaplan, who previously served as board secretary, and Development and Marketing chair, also concludes his six year term.

"Beth and Craig gave their time, talent and heart to ALSO, and our youth are better supported because of them," said Board President Lana Bruce. "We're grateful for their service, and we're thrilled to welcome Seth. His communications background and personal connection to our mission make him a wonderful addition to this board."

"Our board brings together experience in government, global business, fundraising, education, arts administration and wellness, all in service of LGBTQ+ youth,” said ALSO Youth Executive Director Annie Berkness. “As demand for our counseling, support groups and youth programs continues to grow, their leadership helps keep the doors open to every young person seeking community and support.”

The ALSO Youth 2026-27 Board of Directors

Lana Bruce (President) Renee Autumn Ray (Vice President) Mark Cole (Secretary) Matthew Mitchell (Treasurer) Steve Bennet Caitlin Brunk Mike Keane Seth Mercantel Leanndra Yates

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About ALSO Youth

ALSO Youth is a Sarasota-Manatee nonprofit empowering LGBTQ+ youth and allies to build inclusive communities. ALSO was founded in 1992 in response to high suicide rates among local gay and lesbian teens. Working with partners such as PFLAG, Planned Parenthood and YMCA, ALSO’s founders began a support group in Sarasota and expanded into educator training and broader community services.

ALSO has more than 1,500 visits each year from LGBTQ+ youth ages 10 to 24, along with their families, friends and allies across Sarasota and Manatee counties.

Media Contact

Annie Berkness, Executive Director Annie@AlsoYouth.org (941) 254 - 7178

About ALSO Youth

Founded in 1992, ALSO Youth empowers LGBTQ+ youth ages 10 to 24 and their families by providing safe, affirming spaces where they can connect, grow, and thrive. Serving Sarasota and Manatee Counties, ALSO Youth offers free mental health counseling, peer support groups, leadership development, life-skills programming, scholarships, outreach, and community-building opportunities fostering resilience, belonging, and wellbeing.