Pride celebrations in Seattle turned into something much bigger than a night out.
Lifelong’s inaugural Pride Gala raised more than $142,050 through its live auction on June 13, bringing together community leaders, advocates and supporters for an evening dedicated to expanding access to healthcare, housing and food programs across Washington.
Held at The Sanctuary, the sold-out event welcomed more than 200 guests and blended celebration with purpose, spotlighting LGBTQ+ changemakers while generating support for organizations serving thousands across the state.
Hosted by celebrity stylist and television personality Brad Goreski, the evening featured appearances and performances from Grammy-winning artist Macy Gray, drag favorite Miz Cracker and Seattle native Jake Shears of Scissor Sisters.
The event also honored actress, producer and advocate Laverne Cox with the Lifelong Pride in Action Award for her work advancing LGBTQ+ representation and visibility. Creator and advocate Chris Olsen received the LGBTQ+ Changemaker of the Year Award for his efforts to elevate queer voices and encourage greater acceptance.
A Night Centered on Community Impact
Founded in 1983 during the AIDS crisis, Lifelong has spent decades supporting individuals facing illness, housing instability and barriers to care. Today, the organization provides services including nutritious food access, medication support, HIV care, housing assistance and case management.
According to Lifelong, proceeds from the gala will directly support its mission of “Health For All,” helping fund programs serving more than 8,200 people throughout Washington. A portion of funds raised will also benefit Seattle Pride’s Youth Programs, which provide affirming spaces, leadership opportunities and connection for LGBTQIA2S+ youth ages 12 to 18.
“For more than 40 years, showing up has been the defining feature of this incredible organization. When someone is in need in our community—no matter who they are—we show up,” Lifelong CEO James Shackelford said during the evening.
“We believe that food and healthcare are human rights and everyday, we’re doing the work, from the streets of Seattle to the halls of Congress, to deliver that kind of support and care for every member of our community. Tonight is another way we are showing up – not just for the LGBTQ+ community during Pride – but for our neighbors across Washington who deserve basic human rights: nutritious food, stable housing, and accessible healthcare.”
Big Auction Moments And A Packed Dance Floor
While philanthropy remained at the center of the evening, guests leaned into the celebration.
One of the most emotional moments came through a tribute video honoring Frederick “Freddie” Foy Jr., who died from AIDS and whose legacy continues to resonate within the community.
The gala’s live auction, curated by Seattle Art Source, delivered standout moments throughout the night.
A Tuscany villa getaway sparked intense bidding and ultimately sold twice for a combined $22,000. Original artworks climbed as high as $8,500, while a Camp Pinchot cabin retreat sold for $8,000. A “Mystery Envelope” reveal generated excitement before uncovering a five-night resort stay in Antigua that closed at $5,000.
Additional donations poured in during the evening’s cash call, including several individual contributions of $10,000.
And once Macy Gray took the stage, guests reportedly stayed there.
Attendees filled the dance floor during Gray’s performance, singing along to her cover of Right Said Fred’s “I’m Too Sexy” before continuing through a medley that included her signature hit, “I Try.”
Looking Beyond Pride Month
For organizers, the gala represented more than a successful fundraiser.
“The inaugural Pride Gala demonstrated what is possible when a community comes together in support of health, equity and belonging,” Seattle Pride Executive Director Patti Hearn said.
“The impact of this event will extend far beyond one evening and help strengthen critical resources for LGBTQIA2S+ individuals across our region.”
The event was produced by JWP alongside Lifelong and supported by sponsors including Uber, Russell Investments, Miller Nash, Hoedemaker Pfeiffer and BNBuilders.
If the inaugural gala is any indication, Pride in Seattle came with sequins, standing ovations and a tangible impact that will continue long after June.