Kick-off to Canada's WinterPRIDE begins in Toronto on January 11, 2013

The Toronto Gay Ski and Snowboarding Club (TGSC) is now celebrating its thirteenth year with a full schedule of local day trips, extended out of province trips, parties and get togethers.  An all-volunteer organization, it is open to all members of the queer community. A full calendar of events can be found at www.tgsc.ca

This is TGSC first scheduled trip to GayWhistler's WinterPRIDE (WinterPRIDE) from February 3 to 10, 2013.  Partnering with GayWhistler, TGSC is presenting "Avalanche", the official Toronto area kick-off party for WinterPRIDE with all profits going to support the TGSC SOY Ski trip on March 10, 2013.

Administered by the Sherbourne Health Center, Supporting Our Youth (SOY), is an exciting, dynamic community development program designed to improve the lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transsexual and transgendered youth in Toronto through the active involvement of youth and adult communities. Their "Get Out! Program" focuses on opening doors for marginalized LGBT youth.

Over the past few years, TGSC has made it possible for over 80 SOY youth to get out on to the ski slopes to try out skiing or snowboarding. Last March, 17 youth joined in the day event. Some of the youth, as newcomers, have never seen so much snow before; none of them would have the chance to pursue this kind of activity in the usual way. They can be their 'full selves' for a change "without having to worry about being guarded."

SOY Coordinator, Adam, commented:  "[This activity] gives youth exposure to something completely new, and often that carries on into other parts of their lives. The knowledge that they can succeed at something so different can really open doors for them."

DJ Sumation, DJ Quinces, and DJ Dwayne Minard were quick to volunteer their time and skills to provide the music for Avalanche. Club 120, a traditionally inclusive LGBTQ club, operated by Todd Klinck and Mandy Goodhandy, was excited about providing the space for the event.

OutVisions is running a sweepstakes contest to win a weekend at GayWhistler's WinterPRIDE. They offered up the trip as a promotional draw for the Avalanche event. By attending, people have a chance to win. Colin Sines, the magazine's editor said "This is just the type of event we like to get involved with."

GayWhistler's WinterPRIDE, celebrating it's 21st year, is one of the world's leading mountain festivals that celebrates diversity and has been named one of the top Gay Ski Weeks by editors, travel writers and guests from around the planet.

Visit the official website at www.gaywhistler.com

Avalanche is to be held January 11, 2013 at Club 120.  The first 50 Tickets cost $5, the next 50 cost $10. Price will be higher at the door. Tickets and details available at  www.tgsc.ca/avalanche

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