For 35 years, Side by Side has been a place where LGBTQ+ youth and young adults can define themselves, belong, and thrive.

It all began in 1991 when a group of local advocates came together to form the Richmond Organization for Sexual Minority Youth (ROSMY) to create supportive space for young people whose identities weren’t being affirmed anywhere else. At that time, “sexual minority youth” was the phrase people used to describe young lesbian, gay, and bisexual people, and ROSMY quickly became a lifeline for those who felt alone or unseen.

Saturday, May 16, 2026
12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
📍 Midtown Green
2401 West Leigh Street
Richmond, Virginia

As language evolved and our work expanded to better reflect the full spectrum of LGBTQ+ youth we serve, ROSMY became Side by Side—a name that reflects our commitment to walking with young people, not ahead of them, and never leaving them behind.

Every young person who walks through our doors brings a story — of courage, curiosity, fear, strength, pain, and discovery. For many, Side by Side is the first place they’ve ever been told: You are seen. You belong. And you matter.

Thanks to generous supporters like you, Side by Side provides:

• Free, affirming support groups and drop-in support

• Provide free one-on-one clinical counseling services

• Youth leadership development

• Housing navigation

• Educational training for schools, community partners, and youth professionals

These programs don’t just make youth feel safe — they help them grow with pride and claim their place in the world. As we celebrate 35 years of impact, we’re also meeting a growing need. More youth are struggling with isolation, mental health challenges, rejection, and uncertainty than ever before. Your gift ensures we can continue showing up with compassion, with consistency, and without judgment for every young person who needs us.

When you give, you’re not just funding programs.
You’re nurturing confidence.
You’re planting hope.
You’re helping young lives flourish.

Thank you for standing alongside Side by Side and LGBTQ+ youth across Virginia. 💙

Ways to Support

💖 Make a Donation

Every gift fuels life-saving programs, affirming spaces, and year-round support for LGBTQ+ youth. Your generosity helps ensure young people are never alone—and always celebrated.

🌟 Become a Sponsor
Align your brand with our mission and be recognized as a champion for equity, safety, and celebration. Together, we can continue to bloom brighter—because our youth deserve nothing less. As a sponsor, your brand will be recognized throughout the event and associated promotions—highlighting your leadership and values to a community that cares. 👉 Contact sutisha@sidebysideva.org for more information.

🎁 Donate an Item to the Silent Auction
Have a product, service, or experience you’d like to contribute? Our silent auction features curated items that help raise critical funds for LGBTQ+ youth—and your donation can make a meaningful impact. From gift cards and local experiences to art, services, or packages, every item helps us create an engaging and successful auction. Fill out the donation form and get in touch with Sutisha at sutisha@sidebysideva.org to coordinate your contribution.

🤝 Volunteer at Springtime
Want to be part of the magic behind the scenes? We’d love your help! From guest check-in and event setup to supporting activities throughout the day, volunteers play a vital role in making Springtime a welcoming and meaningful experience for all. Sign up here.

If you’re available on the day of the event and want to get involved, we could truly use your support. Reach out to page@sidebysideva.org to learn more.

About the Event

Springtime is Side by Side’s annual fundraising gala — a joyful, community-centered brunch celebrating 35 years of showing up for LGBTQ+ youth. This isn’t just an event. It’s a moment to gather with purpose, give with intention, and directly invest in the programs and support that LGBTQ+ young people across Virginia rely on every day.

When you join Springtime, you’re helping sustain life-saving, affirming spaces — and you’ll experience that impact firsthand.

What to expect:

• Powerful stories from alumni and former youth who have been part of Side by Side

• A program highlighting the real impact of our work

• A silent auction featuring curated items and experiences

• Live entertainment, including a drag performance

• Music, celebration, and community connection throughout the day

Tickets include brunch and complimentary beverages, including soft drinks, beer, and wine. Mixed drinks and specialty cocktails will also be available for purchase. Whether you attend as an individual, gather friends for a table, or join as a sponsor, your presence directly supports LGBTQ+ youth and young adults in our community