2026 Courage+ Gala

"Unmasked and Unbothered"

October 30, 2026

Baird Center Milwaukee

Dear Friends, Family, Partners, and Community Leaders,

In a time when LGBTQ+ youth across our country are increasingly being targeted, erased from conversations, and stripped of protections meant to keep them safe, Courage+ continues to stand firmly in one simple truth: every young person deserves to feel safe, affirmed, loved, and celebrated exactly as they are.

What began in 2015 as a response to the stories of queer youth experiencing rejection, bullying, homelessness, and fear has grown into something much bigger than we ever imagined. Today, Courage+ serves LGBTQ+ youth across Wisconsin through housing, mental health support, community programming, advocacy, and affirming spaces where young people can finally exhale and simply be themselves.

This year, we invite you to stand with us as a sponsor of our 11th Annual Family Gala: UNMASKED & UNBOTHERED on October 30, 2026

This event is more than a gala. It is a declaration that our youth deserve joy despite the noise, dignity despite the attacks, and community despite the attempts to isolate them.

Because of supporters like you, Courage+ is changing lives every single day. Our recent resident survey outcome data showed:

  • 100% of youth reported feeling accepted and affirmed at Courage+
  • 100% said Courage+ is a good fit for them
  • 100% would recommend Courage+ to another young person
  • Residents reported growth in self-confidence, mental health, education, employment readiness, and independent living skills

But the true impact cannot be measured by numbers alone.

“Because of Courage+ I am not homeless. I will be able to get surgery.”

“Because of Courage+, not only was I able to survive, I was able to live. I actually want to be alive and I’m happier than ever.”

“Because of Courage+ I am starting to have faith in humanity again… just a little bit.”

That is the impact your sponsorship makes possible.

When you sponsor Unmasked & Unbothered, you are not simply supporting an event. You are helping create homes, meals, crisis support, affirming care, community connection, and futures for LGBTQ+ youth who too often hear messages telling them they do not belong.

More than 700 guests, advocates, families, and community leaders will gather together to celebrate resilience, authenticity, and the power of showing up for one another. We would be honored to have you stand beside us.

Sponsorship Opportunities

Presenting Sponsor | $20,000

  • Opportunity to speak in front of our 700 guests
  • Includes two tables of 10
  • Prime table placement
  • Courage+ gala welcome basket at both tables
  • Included in and headlines all social, print, and media marketing before and day of
  • Invite to our VIP and Award event the evening before

Bravemaker Sponsorship | $10,000

  • Includes two tables of 10
  • Prime table placement
  • Included in all print marketing before and day of
  • Invite to our VIP and Award event the evening before

Bravespace Sponsor | $5,000

  • Includes one table of ten
  • Included in all social and print media marketing before and day of
  • Invite to our VIP and Award event the evening before

+YOU Table Sponsorship | $3,000

  • Included in all social marketing before and day of, including the program
  • 2 tickets to the gala
  • Invite to our VIP and Award event the evening before

Ally Sponsorship | $1,000

  • Included in all marketing before and day of

Friend of Courage+ Sponsor | $500

  • Included in the program the night of the event