It’s no secret that—in today’s challenging times—budgets and funding are being cut left and right for many LGBT nonprofit organizations. Just recently, L.A.-based GLASS (Gay & Lesbian Adolescent Social Services)—the nation’s first residential treatment program geared specifically to LGBT youth—was forced to close its doors due to lack of funding. We as a community will suffer greatly if organizations such as these cease to exist.

In the “progressive” state of California, the LGBT community suffered a major blow last fall when Prop. 8 passed, taking away our right to marriage, threatening to nullify existing unions and effectively sending out a message to the entire world that we are indeed considered second-class citizens. None of this is acceptable! We must align ourselves in unity and fight back. We need to take care of our own.

Here’s where MYGAYGO and the strength of the LGBT community come into play. As a consumer, you have the power to make a difference simply by choosing where you spend your hard-earned dollars. It’s all about conscious spending. Would you want to spend your money at a business, which will then turn around and use that money to support organizations working to deny you equal rights? Of course not. Unfortunately, all too often, we do just this, albeit unwittingly.

It’s all about making conscious choices and supporting business that will in turn support you. MYGAYGO is a one-stop mobile application that gives users the resources to make more conscious choices. Looking for a fun LGBT event or place? A nearby LGBT or LGBT-friendly doctor, lawyer, plumber, etc. MYGAYGO will not only give you a complete listing, but, with the GPS functioning offered on mobile devices, will pinpoint where you are and where you need to be. It’s all right here, coast to coast on MYGAYGO.

Here’s how you and MYGAYGO make a difference.

• Keeping it in the family: By supporting LGBT-friendly businesses, you are giving them the power and the means to support our causes. Our voice gets stronger.
• Changing the world: Charities and political organizations that take care of the next generation of the LGBT community and continue to fight for our rights will thrive. We will change the world as we stand together, woman to woman, man to man, hand in hand. But wait, before you join those hands, keep one free and use it to download MYGAYGO on your iPhone now. Coming soon to Blackberry.

What are you waiting for? MYGAYGO—for gays on the go—GO!

Written by David M. Stern