Latest · In the news
ALSO Youth launches scholarship in memory of Judge Rick De Furia
One LGBTQ+ young person in Sarasota or Manatee County will be selected as the Rick De Furia Scholar, with up to $1,500 for an enrichment opportunity.
ABC7 (WWSB)
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News, statements, and coverage.
Where ALSO Youth speaks. Statements from our Executive Director, press releases, and what outlets have said about our work since 2021.
2026
Press release· EIN PresswireALSO Youth Announces the Hon. Rick De Furia Enrichment Scholarship to Honor a Legacy of Investing in Young People
ALSO Youth created a new annual scholarship in memory of Judge Rick De Furia. Each year, one LGBTQ+ young person, ages 10 to 24, receives up to $1,500 to pursue learning beyond the classroom, such as music lessons, art classes, a certification, or career exploration. Applications opened September 12, 2026.
Press releaseCommunity Foundation of Sarasota County Awards $30,000 Grant to ALSO Youth
A $30,000 grant, mostly through the McCauley-Brown Fund, expands free mental health counseling, support groups, and behavioral health services.
In the news· WatermarkALSO Youth series gives Sarasota’s LGBTQ+ youth a voice
Watermark on Healing Voices, an ALSO Youth storytelling series that grew out of our free therapy program.
In the news· FOX 13ALSO Youth Unscripted
Executive Director Annie Berkness and Dr. Johana Kuemerle-Pinillos sit down with FOX 13’s Jennifer Kveglis for a long conversation on Unscripted.
2025
In the news· Sarasota MagazineOne Year After Milton, ALSO Youth Reopens at a New Location
A year after Hurricane Milton destroyed its Sarasota Center, ALSO Youth reopens in a new space.
From the Executive DirectorALSO Youth returns to Sarasota with a new center
After nearly 10 months without a physical home in Sarasota, ALSO Youth once again has a center in the heart of the community.
Press release· EIN PresswireALSO Youth Receives $41,000 Community Foundation Grant to Strengthen LGBTQ+ Services
A $41,000 capacity-building grant from the Community Foundation of Sarasota County’s McCauley-Brown Fund, for staff benefits, steady leadership, and better technology.
From the Executive DirectorOn the Supreme Court ruling in U.S. v. Skrmetti
You are valued, you are loved, and ALSO Youth will keep fighting for your right to safe, affirming health care.
From the Executive DirectorWelcoming Annie Berkness as Interim Executive Director
As of April 4th, Annie Berkness stepped in as Interim Executive Director at ALSO Youth.
Press release· EIN Presswire (via CBS 42)ALSO Youth Raises $35,530 at Sold-Out Tsunami Fundraiser to Support LGBTQ+ Youth in Sarasota & Manatee
ALSO Youth’s sold-out brunch fundraiser raised $35,530 to fund free LGBTQ+ youth support programs and mental health services in Sarasota and Manatee Counties.
In the news· Spectrum News, Bay News 9Grant money will help local nonprofit with the increased need for more counseling services in the LGBTQ+ community
ALSO Youth recently received a grant from the Bishop Parker Foundation that will fund more counseling services for the LGBTQ+ community.
2023
In the news· Bradenton HeraldManatee County officials deny funding to LGBTQ+ program for kids’ mental health
Executive Director (2022 to 2024) Becky McDonough talks with the Bradenton Herald about Manatee County officials voting to block funding for a mental health counseling program for LGBTQ children.
In the news· Suncoast ViewProviding a safe space for LGBTQ+ members at ALSO Youth
Executive Director Becky McDonough talks with Suncoast View about ALSO Youth's services and Give OUT Day.
In the news· Sarasota OUTALSO Youth Prom: A Night of Fun, Dancing, and Inclusion
On February 18th, 2023, ALSO Youth held its annual Prom at the Sarasota Municipal Auditorium, and it was a night to remember.
2022
In the news· ABC7 (WWSB)Open hearts and safe spaces for LGBTQ people at ALSO Youth, Trinity Church MCC
Program Manager Olivia Tooker talks with ABC7 after a spike in LGBTQ+ issues nationwide.
In the news· Bradenton HeraldAs LGBTQ+ Floridians face new threats, locals point to education. ‘Language is so important’
Outreach Coordinator Christine speaks on the importance of education and inclusive LGBTQ+ language.
In the news· FOX 13Sarasota County school guidelines on gender issues under review as new law is signed
Under a newly signed bill, parents would be notified anytime a student asks to be called by a pronoun that differs from their birth sex.
In the news· Patch (via Yahoo News)Manatee Pride Brings LGBTQ Community Together In Bradenton
Hundreds of LGBTQ+ community members and allies gathered for Manatee Pride, hosted by ALSO Youth at Bradenton Riverwalk.
In the news· WFLAManatee County holds 7th annual PRIDE celebration
Manatee Pride brings out more than a thousand people every year.
In the news· Sarasota Herald-TribuneSarasota's LGBTQ community waves 700-foot pride flag in opposition to 'Don't Say Gay' bill
Hundreds of LGBTQ residents and supporters rallied and waved a 700-foot Pride flag over the Ringling Bridge in Sarasota.
In the news· WatermarkJust Dance: Inclusive Organizations Bring Fashion and Prom to LGBTQ Youth
ALSO Prom gives LGBTQ+ youth a safe space to express themselves and connect with other youth.
In the news· Sarasota MagazineMary Tavarozzi Gives LGBTQ Youth a Place to Socialize
ALSO Youth's president, Mary Tavarozzi, receives Sarasota Magazine's Unity Award: “I want them to know they can live life out and proud here.”
2021
In the news· WatermarkALSO Youth launches ALSO, Jr.
Watermark on the launch of ALSO Jr., a new program for LGBTQ+ youth ages 10 to 12.
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