About the Gala
The annual Safe Homes Gala and People of Courage Awards raises money for the Safe Homes program, an LGBTQIA+ drop-in serving youth ages 14-23 in Worcester, North County, and online via Discord.
The People of Courage Awards honors passionate and dedicated individuals and businesses making a difference in the Central Massachusetts community.
In 2025, we raised over $200,000 for Safe Homes! Thank you for supporting our work to provide support, resources and opportunities for socialization in a safe and nurturing environment.
2025 Photo Album 2024 Photo Album 2023 Photo Album
2026 Ticket Levels
Click here to purchase tickets
Premium VIP $250
Premium VIP Table for 10 People $2,250
*Limited number available
Priority seating
Drinks available via table service
Access to exclusive VIP reception beginning at 5pm
VIP gift
Access to Gala, general reception, and plated dinner, beginning at 6pm
VIP $200
VIP Table for 10 People $1,750
Access to exclusive VIP reception beginning at 5pm
VIP gift
Access to Gala, general reception, and plated dinner, beginning at 6pm
Supporter $100
Supporter Table for 10 People $900
Access to the Gala, general reception, and plated dinner, beginning at 6pm
Lavender Club Member Discount
The Lavender Club is Safe Homes' monthly giving group. Show your support for LGBTQIA+ youth year-round and receive special perks including Gala registration discount!
Rainbow Revolution ($20-49.99/month) - 10% off registration
Lavender Leader ($50+/month) - 15% off registration
Must become a member prior to Gala registration to be eligible for discount.
Discount information will be emailed directly to members.
What to Expect
5pm: VIP Reception starting
6pm: General Check-in
Silent Auction (online and items will be displayed at the event)
6:30pm - Dinner
7:30pm - Program (Speakers, Presentation of People of Courage Awards & Fund-A-Need)
Social Hour and Dance Party with DJ Joslyn Fox
2026 People of Courage Awardees
The People of Courage Awards recognize those making a difference in the local LGBTQIA+ community!
All awards will be presented at the Safe Homes Gala, March 6, 2026 at Mechanic's Hall in Worcester, MA.
Community Champion Award
Amanda Dellea-Rheaume
Public Service Award
Kristine Shaw
Inspiration and Innovation Award
Queer Worcester Art Club (QWAC)
Social Justice Advocacy and Action Award
Tanya Neslusan
People’s Choice Award
Worcester Earn-A-Bike
Youth Award
Nico T.
Online Silent Auction Opens February 27th
Win awesome prizes like sports tickets, gift baskets, passes to local attractions, and more! Anyone can participate in bidding whether or not they are attending the Gala!
All proceeds go directly to Safe Homes.
Having trouble with your Ready Set Auction account? Email events@openskycs.org.
Sponsorship
Interested in becoming a sponsor for the 2026 Safe Homes Gala? This is a great opportunity for you or your company to show off your pride and support LGBTQIA+ youth in Central Massachusetts.
View Sponsorship Opportunities Make Your Pledge
Please contact events@openskycs.org with any questions.
