Marking half a decade of support and celebration, Transpire Help’s Pride on the Block fundraiser returns to Clematis Street on June 1, promising its biggest event yet. The event will be held from 1-11 p.m.
Transpire Help is a nonprofit organization that was founded in 2016 to support LGBTQ individuals struggling with substance abuse. Pride on the Block is their largest annual fundraiser, according to Founder Donna Weinberger.
“Last year, we raised $24,000, which directly supported our mission to assist LGBTQ individuals with substance use issues,” Weinberger said. “The funds helped provide housing, substance use treatment, food, basic necessities, and life skills training. Transpire Help is dedicated to creating a supportive and inclusive environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and build healthier, more stable lives.”
This year, the event will feature 25 performers, more than double from last year.
“Our lineup features dynamic performances from local and visiting artists, showcasing the rich talent within our LGBTQIA+ community,” Weinberger said. “We are excited to see such visibility both on the stage and in the streets. West Palm Beach, particularly the 500 Block, has been a steadfast supporter of our LGBTQIA+ community for decades. We are proud to highlight our Downtown WPB downtown area as we bring together so much talent and celebrate our shared history and future.”
One of the speakers will be Maxx Fenning, Executive Director of PRISM, a nonprofit organization focused on sexual education for LGBTQ youth.
“This year, I think there's a real sense of hope for our community as we recover from the chaos of 2022 and 2023,” Fenning said. “I'm excited to talk about that – the firm belief that we can and will take back our state and create a world where queer people finally feel safe.”
In 2022, a teenager in Canada was apprehended by law enforcement for making an online threat of a mass shooting at the event. Weinberger stressed that they collaborate with local law enforcement to ensure safety.
“Thanks to the diligent work of our law enforcement, the individual responsible for the threat was arrested on the same day,” Weinberger said. “Despite the incident, we had a fun and safe event that year. Safety is our top priority, and we collaborate closely with local law enforcement to ensure the well-being of all participants. With these partners, we look forward to this year's Pride on the Block, kicking off Pride Month with happiness, fun, and celebration.”
General Admission is free. Wristbands that can be redeemed for free drinks and other perks at participating businesses are $35 pre-sale, $40 at the event. There are also VIP wristbands for a VIP viewing area of the stage that are $45 pre-sale, $50 at the event. Visit PrideOnTheBlock.com for more information.
