After being fired from a well-paying restaurant job, Lance Berlin, who is transgender, was unsure what to do. Then he took a hike up Stone Mountain with members of JustUs ATL.
“That’s when I decided to get involved with the community,” said Berlin, 25, who believes he lost his job due to his gender identity.
Now working at a Midtown gay bar, Berlin has made organizing with JustUs ATL a major part of his life. He feels the organization is critical for all youth, especially for trans-identified youth like himself.
JustUs ATL, a youth-led and youth-run organization, held its first fundraiser on Aug. 17 at the Phillip Rush Center with a Rainbow Jam, an an open mic and variety showcase that featured young people performing everything from drag to music therapy songs on the guitar to stand up comedy.
Closing out the night was Nipplephobia, an all transgender band that, well, specializes in making loud noise. And making their fans scream with joy.
Dozens of people packed the Rush Center for the fundraiser that included dinner donated by local restaurants and several raffles. Organizers said early estimates were JustUs ATL raised several hundred dollars at its first major event.
Prepare for an array of experiences to satisfy your appetite as JustUsATL hosts "Rainbow Jam" — its first major fundraiser that includes an open mic variety show and dinner from local restaurants. The Rainbow Jam Friday (tomorrow), Aug. 17.
JustUsATL, a youth-led and run LGBT organization for young people ages 13-28, formed earlier this year to provide a resource for teens and young adults seeking others to gather and share stories, support and friendship.
The Rainbow Jam is open to all people of all ages and is set for 7-11 p.m. at the Phillip Rush Center. Suggested donations are between $5 and $20 at the door.