The entertainment and performing arts world came together last night to raise money for The Trevor Project at TrevorLIVE 2016. The semi-annual fundraising ceremony recognizes The Trevor Project's impact in suicide prevention and crisis intervention for LGBTQ young people and raises awareness about their lifesaving resources through an evening of comedy and music. The event was star-studded with appearances from entertainers such as Andrew Rannels ( Girls), Judith Light (Transparent), Noah Galvin (The Real O'Neals), Dan Bucatinsky (Scandal) and Billy Porter (Kinky Boots), and included moving performances by The Nation's First LGBT Chorus The Stonewall Chorale who covered Cyndi Lauper's "True Colors" and Grammy Award nominated and multi-platinum R&B star Deborah Cox who covered Whitney Houston's "The Greatest Love of All."
Award recipients included the following:
Twitter was awarded the 20/20 Visionary Award for their support of the LGBTQ community and work to promote an empowering future-focused message for LGBTQ young people and allies nationwide.
Cole Ray Davis was recognized as a Trevor Youth Innovator, which honors a young LGBTQ or straight ally under the age of 25 who strives to support, inspire, and empower LGBTQ youth to reach for their dreams. Featured in the new documentary film Deep Run, executive produced by Susan Sarandon, North Carolina trans youth Davis has bravely stepped into the spotlight during one of the most trying times for the trans community.
Richie Jackson and Jordan Roth were recognized as Trevor Heroes for being leaders in the LGBTQ community and their dedication to the mission to end suicide for all LGBTQ youth.
The deadly mass shooting in Orlando was top of mind for attendees, many of whom wore silver ribbons in honor of the 49 victims and 53 injured. In addition to offering condolences to the lives lost and opening their wallets to raise money for The Trevor Project, celebrities offered love, support and advise to LGBT youth and allies alike.
To LGBT allies -- "Let everyone know they can be themselves...and that the must be themselves..." - Vine star, Jeffery Marsh
To LGBT youth -- "Gays are everywhere. We cross ethnic, religious, economic divides. You should never feel alone." - Actor/Singer, Andrew Keenan-Bolger
To LGBT allies -- "Help people realize they are not alone and connect them to resources that are available to them." - Singer, Deborah Cox
To LGBT allies -- "When I was a kid coming out in the 80s, resources like The Trevor Project didn't exist. It's important that allies know what resources are available and connect their friends to them." Broadway Star, Billy Porter
To LGBT youth -- "Find your tribe. If your family doesn't accept you, you can create your own family. Use social media and outreach programs like The Trevor Project to find your people."
To LGBT allies -- "Do your research. Ask thoughtful questions. We want and need your support." - Drag Performer, Milk
To LGBT youth and allies -- "We're all family and we can't let anyone take that away from us. We have to stick together." Actor, Nico Tortorella
Last night's event raised $800,000 (so far). To learn more or to donate, visit www.TheTrevorProject.org