Equality NC, Gala

It's that time again when Equality NC hold its annual Gala. I'm sure this year will be another great and successful event. I must say that I have never been to one. I wish I could attend this year, but I can't for personal reason. So what is my beef with E-NC

This is one reason:

Individual Registration

• Conference & Gala both at $150 ($175 after October 24)
  
• Gala only at $125 ($150 after October 24)
  
• Conference only at $50 ($75 after October 24)
  

Individual Sponsorship

• $225 per person / $425 per couple
  
• Individual sponsor for both the conference & gala with listing on our website and at the event
  
• Admission to both the conference & gala
  
• Register by October 24 for additional listing in our program guide!
  
• Help make it possible for others to attend!
  

Special Rates for Students

Both college and high school; college or other ID required

• Conference and Gala both at $55 ($65 after October 24)
  
• Gala only at $50 ($60 after October 24)
  
• Conference only at $15 ($25 after October 24)
  

Special Rates for People with Income Challenges

• Conference and Gala both at $80 ($95 after October 24)
  
• Conference only at $25 ($40 after October 24)
  
• Gala only at $60 ($75 after October 24)
  

Special Rates for Members of our Equality Council

If you have pledged or made gifts of $1,200 or more to Equality North Carolina/Equality NC Foundation during calendar year 2008, you're entitled to complimentary admission to the conference, gala, or both. (Sorry, but this benefit can't be transferred!)

I can understand giving students a discounted rate, after all they are in school and have many other finical concerns. Then there are those that are finically challenge, but have to pay more than students.

What I don't like the Individual Registration and Individual Sponsorship costs. For additional $75.00 you can get your name listed in the program guide. Then there if you gave more than $1200.00 within this year you get in basically for free.

This part really gets me:

The board and staff of Equality NC Foundation are strongly committed to welcoming people from all income levels to this event. We have made every effort to keep our registration fees as low as possible while still rising needed funds for our work.

If this is true then charge everyone the same fee, even those you have given money over the year. Then it would be easier for than to help those you really can't afford to attend.

I' appreciate all the work those that Equality North Carolina have done, but I still wonder exactly whom in our community benefited; who are they working for?