frequently asked questions

What does Positive Images need more money for?
It's not that we need "more" money - we have costs just as other non-profit organizations do. We do an amazing job at keeping our expenses low, yet we still incur them, nevertheless:

1. We offer all our services as no-fee because young people are not prepared to pay for their own counseling. Because of the frequent necessity for confidentiality, many youth do not ask their parents for funds like they would for a soccer team or music lessons.
2. We run the organization on one shared 3/4-time salary for two adult directors to encourage and develop youth leadership.
3. We offer young-adult intern positions to help outstanding members gain work experience, take on additional leadership projects and build their resumes.
4. We are the "first call" for local mental health and health professionals when they desire staff development around GLBTQI clients. Our panel presentations require coordination and transportation.
5. We maintain the Sarah Smith Center (312 Chinn Street, Santa Rosa) as the only GLBTQI drop-in reference and referral space for Sonoma County.
6. In addition to yearly operating expenses, we are building a long-term endowment that will help maintain the organization and Center in the years to come.

Will there be any single people there?
Yes! We know, prom is traditionally an event that one attends with a date. However, this event is everything but traditional! (Seriously, we're holding an GLBTQI prom at a Catholic-owned facility ... it doesn't really get much more non-traditional than this!) We encourage single folks to "come stag," and who knows ... maybe this Night of Elegance will become something even more special than it already is for our single friends.

What should I wear?
This elegant event will draw outfits ranging from the most formal tuxedoes and gowns to the most creative and surprising Prom attire. Some folks are very excited about getting dressed up, others are finding ways to explore different gender elements of themselves, and still others are into just coming as they are. Ultimately, we want you to dress your best expression of who you are, who you'd like to be, or who you wish you'd been at your high school prom.

What should I bring?
Your ID that shows you are over the age of 21, your sense of community, and cash or local checks for drinks, Prom photos, and raffle tickets. What is the relationship between Sparkle! Productions and Positive Images?
In addition to an increasingly mutual fondness, Sparkle! Productions has been contracted by Positive Images to produce this fundraising event. All proceeds from A Night of Elegance go directly to Positive Images to facilitate the continued success of their offerings. Why can't I purchase admission at the door?
Two reasons:

1. There is a stipulation in our contract with St. Rose Hall that we will not sell admission at the door.
2. To make high quality food and service available, we need to know how many people will be attending prior to the date of the event.

What is included in the price of admission?

• A full night of dancing, with music from "back then" and today provided by Sonoma County's own Miss DJ MoniKa. (She'll be accepting requests and dedications all night long!)
• The rare opportunity to slow dance with your girlfriend/boyfriend/partner/date in a public setting.
• Gourmet hors d'oeuvres - both sweet and savory - offered throughout the evening. (Yes, we will have vegan and vegetarian options!)
• An official Prom Photo, provided by professional photographer Tika Moon of Tika Moon Photography (http://www.tikamoonphotography.com/). A digital photo will be sent to you via e-mail after the event.
• The elation that comes with knowing you are supporting an incredible organization that is positively changing hundreds of lives every year.

What else is available that's not included in the price of my admission?

• Participants may purchase a selection of Barefoot Wine, beer, Starbucks Coffee, a selection of teas, and assorted non-alcoholic beverages at our no-host bar.
• Raffle tickets will also be on sale (click here to see a full list of prizes). And finally,
• If you love your complementary photo, you'll be able to purchase a full Prom Memories Photo Package.

Why does A Night of Elegance cost more than just a dance?
In setting our price for admission, we considered several factors:

1. Our purposes for holding A Night of Elegance:
   • To raise funds and increase awareness about the vital services Positive Images provides for Sonoma County's LGBTQI youth and young adults.
   • To create another opportunity for our widespread community to come together for both fun and deep purpose.
2. The cost of similar fundraisers in Sonoma County, and Bay Area LGBTQI events. (We're right in line with Sonoma County fundraisers, but significantly lower than the Bay Area.)
3. A Night of Elegance is a new event and a new concept, so we need to make sure it's successful when we only have capacity for 250 participants.

We know $50 is a stretch for some and not so much for others, so if the cost of the ticket is making it impossible for you to join us, contact us! We may be able to create a workable solution. More Questions?

Contact: 707.704.6168 or SparkleProductions@comcast.net