Momentum continues to build for Cochrane's relatively new LGBTQ2S+ group.

Rashelle Elburg, President of Cochrane LGBTQ2s+, shares the board has been formed and they are ready to get moving. While the 6 person board has been working tirelessly on creating their vision, mission and values they are now hoping to spark a little excitement for the community.

Working initially as a collective focus group, the board has decided what better way to create awareness than host a contest for the public at large. Elburg shares people have an opportunity to win some Cochrane Dollars by helping the group brand themselves. "It's a grand prize of $200 with a runner-up of $100 for a logo and name design. We are so excited about this contest & can't wait to see what people come up with. We have no doubt there are some very creative people here in Cochrane."

The contest is open for youth all the way to seniors and they are hoping to find a unique, colourful creation which the community will eventually identify the organization with. The nameless group (for now) says they are already accepting submissions and will do so until July 13.

While originally the group was gearing the contest toward youth they decided to expand their decision. "We want to emphasize how important it is to be an inclusive organization that wants to include everyone. We really want to create a mandate that focuses on enhancing the quality of life through inclusivity, safer spaces & communities, education, social events and mentorship." 

On July 28th the board will be hosting an event on Historic Main Street unveiling their selection. "We're going to celebrate PRIDE, we're going to be doing a reveal and cake day."

Besides the contest, Cochrane LGBTQ2S+ is looking forward to hosting future events, advocating for everyone from youth to seniors as well as educating the public. "Calgary Sexual Health came out and chaired our first meetings and they have a ton of resources and education."

Creating a community for all those that identify as LGBTQ2S+ is something Elburg is passionate about. "Me and my girlfriend have been together for five years and until something like this came about we thought we were the only same-sex couple and then you see all these other people come out of the woodwork; so we want to inspire and provide total acceptance for all members through community integrated networking, peer/family support, inclusive social events, education and resources.

Elburg believes by hosting the contest the group will be able to elevate awareness and gain support.

Showing his support early on, Banff-Cochrane, MLA Cameron Westhead attended the second meeting the new Cochrane group hosted and was happy to do so. "At a time when Jason Kenney and the UCP caucus are making it pretty clear that they don't plan on standing up for the rights of the LGBTQ2S+ community, I wanted the folks that are spearheading this initiative to know that the government does have their back and that we're going to stand up and fight for their rights and that is why I felt it was important for me to attend their meeting when their trying to get momentum."

Westhead picked up the tab for snacks and beverages and works quite closely with the group 'Banff Pride' which supports LGBTQ2S+ community members throughout the entire Bow Valley region. 

Stating, Cochrane already has an inclusive community, Westhead feels launching this group will be warmly accepted. "Cochrane is a caring and inclusive community and people there accept people for they are and I am really happy to see this group come together and celebrate the diversity that exists in Cochrane."

If you have a creative name and logo design, you are invited to pick up an application form. "Entry forms can be requested by email, facebook or picked up Monday through Friday from Jodi only, at the Boys & Girls Club of Cochrane and Area, between 3-6 pm."

The completed entries can then be emailed back to LGBTQ2Scochrane@gmail.com, mailed or dropped back at the Boys & Girls Club during the above hours.

If you have any questions about Cochrane LGBTQ2S+ feel free to email Elburg at the email abouve or follow them on Facebook HERE.

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