Hi John, 

We’re three weeks into the It Gets Better Summer Reading Challenge, and I’m so grateful for the momentum this community has built.

Together, we’ve already raised half of our $15,000 goal. Every dollar helps LGBTQ+ youth see themselves in stories that inspire, affirm, and empower, showing them their voices and experiences matter.

Our summer reading list is packed with incredible queer talent… bestselling authors like Steven Rowley, Michael Arceneaux, and Shelly Jay Shore, alongside powerful emerging talent like Katerina Jeng, Jase Peeples, Carli J. Corson, and more. Many have shared heartfelt videos about their books, the inspiration behind them, and why queer stories matter. You can watch them, and check out our full list, right here.

John, if you’ve been meaning to jump in with a donation or by launching a fundraiser of your own, now’s the perfect time!

Here's how you can get involved:

• Host your own fundraiser on Facebook, Instagram, or itgetsbetter.org.

• Read and highlight queer books from the list (or your own favorites).

• Post updates to your followers and encourage them to donate.

• Don’t want to host a fundraiser? Donate to ours or share it with your network—spreading the word is just as important as giving.

Every post, every dollar, and every conversation helps keep queer stories alive and accessible to the young people who need them most.

Let’s finish this challenge strong and make sure LGBTQ+ youth everywhere can see themselves celebrated on the page.

Ross W. von Metzke (he/him)
Senior Director, Marketing & Communications
It Gets Better

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