Out On Screen needs your help!

We've all heard the news - government arts funding across British Columbia has been cut with arts organizations all across the province feeling the pinch.

One queer organization that is definitely feeling the effects of these cuts is Out on Screen, the organizers of the annual Vancouver Queer Film Festival, the Out in Schools programme and the Queer History Project.

As a result of the government cuts, Out On Screen will see a deficit of up to $30,000 for 2009 and are anticipating a $54,000 drop in government funding in 2010.

These cuts have already had an impact on an already lean organization (Out On Screen administrative costs are a mere 10% of revenues) including the cancellation of youth film-making workshops, a reduction in the number of filmmakers that they can bring to the Festival and the laying off of two core staff including the part-time Queer History Project Coordinator.

To ensure Out On Screen can continue their programmes, they need to raise an additional $4,000 per month. And that is where you come in...

We know times are tough and we are all watching what we spend. But if you value the work that Out On Screen does it is up to you to ensure this organization survives in this economic environment. We at GayVancouver.Net (Gay Vancouver Online) have committed our ongoing financial support to Out On Screen and we encourage you to do the same.

Whether it is a one-time donation or an ongoing pledge, please consider giving to Out On Screen. You can donate directly to Out On Screen through CanadaHelps.org or you can find more information on other giving options on the Out On Screen website.