John,

Two weeks ago, we were supposed to host over 600 LGBTQ leaders, elected officials and members of the Victory Fund community for our annual National Champagne Brunch. Due to health and safety concerns, we could not gather in person.

This probably comes at no surprise if you know me, but I genuinely missed this event and seeing so many friends and political leaders. On a practical level, it’s our biggest fundraiser of the year, and a chance for our candidates to meet the community and make their case for why their campaigns truly matter. On the main stage, LGBTQ candidates really shine (especially if they wear glitter).

Not hosting our largest fundraiser of the year was a major setback in our fundraising program. Our amazing candidates - like those below - need your help. Will you chip in TODAY to help us correct the setback?

But on a personal level, the National Champagne Brunch is one of my annual reminders that the Victory Fund community and our work are incredibly powerful, ESPECIALLY when we’re united. Last year, we watched as Pete Buttigieg told his coming out story. How he risked his career and happiness for the chance to live his truth. How the pain was worth it when he met Chasten and fell in love. How his career continued to thrive, how he was embraced by those around him.

In that moment, I watched the room embrace Pete, like it had embraced countless LGBTQ candidates before him. That is the power of the LGBTQ community: when times are tough and it seems like we should not win, we come together and get the work done. No one shows up like us. I need you to stand with Victory Fund again – will you chip in today to move our work and candidates forward?

As Vice President of Development, it’s basically my job to worry about cash flow. And without brunches like National, we’re preparing to take a big hit. Our work is too important to put on hold, our LGBTQ candidates too essential to cut from the budget.

But one thing that keeps me sane is knowing that we have amazing supporters like you, John. Who show up when Victory Fund needs them, who chip in when they can to keep our work going. Will you be that supporter and donate today?

Our community has weathered tough storms before, and I know we’ll weather this one too. I can’t wait until we can gather again (with glitter) and hear a new crop of leaders speak to our community. And who knows? The next LGBTQ President might be there.

See you soon,

Seth Schermer

Vice President of Development, LGBTQ Victory Fund