DTLA Proud is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that strengthens and empowers the local LGBTQ+ & ally community in Downtown Los Angeles through visibility, volunteerism, partnerships and events. Founded by a grassroots group of local residents, business owners, community leaders and nightlife promoters, we were born from the idea that together we could create an all-inclusive community that represents the diverse LGBTQ+ population that lives, works and plays in the thriving heart of the city of Los Angeles.
DTLA Proud’s Mission is committed to celebrating everyone’s story, spreading optimism, growing our community and expanding our definition of diversity - By the Community for the Community. In that pursuit DTLA Proud’s goal is to open a Community Center in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles. It’s fundraising efforts are anchored by their August Gala and 3 Day Festival in a transformed Pershing Square. Over the weekend over 15,000 people come together for one Fearlessly Authentic weekend to celebrate the thriving DTLA Community.
I joined DTLA Proud in late May 2019 as a volunteer on their Events Committee. Tasked with all things Festival related, the committee oversaw all festival design, operations and logistics for the August event in historic Pershing Square. As part of the committee I had the opportunity and honor to step into their Main Stage Manager Position. In this role, I was primarily responsible for:
Contract execution/fulfillment for over 85+ Acts over their signature 3-day event.
Liaising between DTLA Proud, Pershing Square staff, ASL/Accessibility Services, and third party vendors for all back of house entertainment needs, including a proper backline to properly fulfill all artists & technical requirements.
Building and training an elite team of volunteers to handle all back of house needs including an Assistant Stage Manager, Artist Checkin, Hospitality and general volunteer support.
Event Management - As the Stage Manager my day of show duties included properly setting up back of house, coordinating between volunteers, Pershing Square staff, technical teams, security, support staff & Artists. Most importantly I was responsible for keeping our program on schedule to adhere to a hard close as well as executing payments.
