Brunch With Benefits (Fundraiser for @YouthCo)

I’ve blogged before about Brunch With Benefits, but lately (and by lately I mean, the past 3 years) I have made more of an effort to promote charitable causes that deal with issues that affect the queer population, so I’m writing about it again (and I will be attending the 2011 event).

HIV is still one of the diseases that affects gay men in a significant proportion, so I am quite keen to support non-profit organizations like YouthCO (in addition to the fact that I have good friends either working for YouthCO or on the board).

YouthCO is Canada’s first youth-driven organization leading the HIV and Hep C movement through peer education, support, and shared leadership.

So, why support Brunch With Benefits, you ask?

Approximately one third of all new HIV-positive tests in Canada are among youth aged 15-29 years, and the numbers are just as high when it comes to Hepatitis C. Now more than ever there is a need for effective prevention, education and support programs by and for young people.

YouthCO has been providing such services for over 16 years and has been recognized nationally as a leader and advocate for youth sexual health. By supporting Brunch with Benefits you are promoting the current and future health of our community.

There are 10 restaurants participating at Brunch With Benefits. 2 that I recall off the top of my head are: Market by St. Georges and The Helm.

Brunch with Benefits 2011 will be happening on Sunday, November 27th at 10 participating restaurants around Vancouver. Enjoy brunch with your friends and family and a portion of the proceeds will go towards YouthCO‘s HIV and Hep C prevention, support and awareness programs for young people.

I will post the complete list of restaurants once I hear back from my friend Michael Reid, who works for YouthCO. The list so far is quite impressive. Check it out! And if you can’t make it for brunch that Sunday, you can still donate directly.