DO THIS: Valley Youth House’s “Always Bet on Youth” Casino Fundraiser at Union Trust


Always Bet On Youth 2014.

Always Bet On Youth 2014.

Valley Youth House is hosting their fifth annual “Always Bet on Youth” fundraiser this Friday. The theme this year is “roaring ’20s casino,” which means you can expect Jazz Age-inspired silent auctions, games and flapper girls galore. There will also be an award ceremony to recognize and honor people who have reflected Valley Youth House‘s mission to help homeless youth over the past year.

Sharmain Matlock-Turner, president and CEO of the Urban Affairs Coalition, will be acknowledged as the 2015 Individual Achiever; Comcast will be honored as the 2015 Community Achiever for their dedication to support Philly’s youth population; and Safiya Washington will be presented as the first-ever Young Achiever, which recognizes homeless youth who have shown dedication, commitment and positivity in their transition to independence.

Since 2010, “Always Bet on Youth” has raised over $120,000 to support independent living and housing services for approximately 1,500 homeless and foster care youth, many of which are LGBT. Valley Youth House is dedicated to chiseling away at the frightening statistics that say 40 percent of homeless youth identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender. You can read more about their mission to help here.

“Always Best on Youth” takes place at Union Trust on Friday, March 13th from 6 to 10 pm. Tickets for the event are $100 for individuals, $185 for couples, and $60 for young professionals age 30 and under. For more information about the event or to purchase tickets, please contact Valerie Johnson at vjohnson@valleyyouthhouse.org or call 215- 925-3180.