News  Training Administrative Coordinator culminates Pride Month with quilt raffle fundraiser

Julie Grady, Training Division Administrative Coordinator, ended the observance of Pride Month, celebrated during the month of June, by raffling off a rainbow-themed Pride Lap Quilt and donating the proceeds to Worcester County organizations that support youth in the LGBTQIA+ community.

"We wanted a way to give back to the community knowing that the youth and young adults need the support. The purpose of this fundraiser is to raise money and awareness for the LGBTQIA+ community. My mother is the creator of this beautiful quilt. We are both LGBTQIA+ allies and want to spread love and hope for human equality," said Grady who also serves as an instructor for the Training Division's LGBTQIA+ curriculum.

Grady's mother, Dot Grady, created the 52 X 44 quilt which was sewn to replicate the newly redesigned Rainbow flag, a symbol of the LGBTQIA+ community, which now includes brown and black stripes which represent people of color as well as pink, white, and blue stripes to include the transgender community, according to Grady. Approximately $1,000 was raised and $500 each was donated to Safe Homes in Worcester and Clinton High School Sexuality & Gender Alliance (SAGA). Safe Homes is a drop-in center and support group for LGBTQIA+ young adults, 14-23 years old. SAGA, according to its mission, "fosters awareness, promotes education, an provides a forum for discussion about issues of sexuality and gender identity."