September 18 | Wharf DC | 6:30pm
Honorary Hosts
Councilmember Robert White, MC Rayceen Pendarvis
Ticket Levels
Co-Host: $1,000 | Friend: $500 | Guest: $150 | Young Professional $100
Sponsorship Package Here
LGBTQ+ youth in our nation’s capital are navigating an unprecedented crisis. The District’s own data reveals a heartbreaking reality: nearly two-thirds of youth experiencing homelessness identify as LGBTQ+.
By attending our Fall Reception, you aren't just funding an event. You are actively investing in sanctuary, stability, and a future where every queer young person in DC can thrive.
Hosted by
Avoq, Adam Beebe & Cary Kadlecek, Cesar Toledo & Christian Walker, Darrin L. Glymph, Esq., Jeff Marootian, Jose Romero, Kevin Parton & Kurt Powers, Mary Anne Gibbons, Michael Strich & Jay Johns
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To be announced.
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Palate202 Catering LLC specializes in Caribbean and Jamaican dishes, bringing a distinct Jamaican flair to a variety of American classics. Lead Chef Steven German brings an international palate to the kitchen, preparing world-class cuisine tailored for any occasion.
Learn more here: www.palate202catering.com -
Rayceen Pendarvis is an event host, performer, community advocate, self-described gender-blender, and lifelong Washingtonian. As an inspirational speaker, enthusiastic promoter, renowned host of numerous LGBTQ events, and champion of many local causes, Rayceen has earned the monikers High Priestess of Love, Queen of the Shameless Plug, Empress of Pride, and Goddess of DC.
In the 1980s, Rayceen was a beauty industry professional who advocated for people living with HIV and raised funds for burials. In the 1990s, Rayceen was a member of a vocal trio which opened for Robin S and RuPaul; also in that decade and throughout the next, Rayceen was a frequent host of the DC Black Pride Festival.
In the 21st century, Rayceen was elected Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner in Ward 5, began hosting annual events for Trans Pride and Silver Pride, and, in 2012, launched The Ask Rayceen Show, a community gathering and variety program, which concluded after a decade.
In 2021, the DC Council passed the Rayceen Pendarvis Recognition Resolution and the Washington Blade named Rayceen their Local Hero. In 2022 and 2024, Rayceen was voted Most Committed Activist in the Washington Blade's Best of LGBTQ DC Readers' Poll.
Rayceen continues to host festivals, Pride celebrations, community gatherings, and other events, often in partnership with Team Rayceen Productions, and is active on several social media platforms, which are accessible via Rayceen.com -
This is a black-tie standing reception.
Location
Cornerstone Government Affairs Penthouse Rooftop at 800 Maine Ave SW. The building entrance is between CVS and Chopsmith, and can be viewed here.