The Phoenix-based nonprofit one-n-ten, which offers resources and support to Arizona’s LGBTQ+ community, will host their second National Coming Out Day gathering with guest speakers and fundraiser on Wednesday, Oct. 12 from 5:30–7:30 p.m. at the Heard Museum in Phoenix.

The organization will also be the grand marshall at the Phoenix Pride Parade taking place on Sunday, Oct. 16.

Each year, National Coming Out Day offers a chance for the LGBTQ+ community to share their stories in an effort to raise awareness and offer support for those who may be struggling or feel unable to embrace the fullness of their identities. Recent political attacks on the LGBTQ+ community only affirm the importance of this event dedicated to encouraging individuals to take the step in coming out, a press release stated.

“For many, coming out can often bring about a fear of rejection from their loved ones,” one-n-ten CEO Nate Rhoton, said in the release. “Our hopes for this event is to showcase that though not everyone’s journey is the same, there is an incredible community of supporters behind them that will embrace every part of their identity.”

The event will also serve as a fundraiser for one-n-ten to help the community navigate the coming out process and other important life events, from supportive housing solutions to workforce development. The center recently introduced a parent-group program, for parents and adults to share their experiences and educate themselves on how to support their youth effectively.

According to the release, over 60% of LGBTQ+ youth disclosed wanting mental health care but did not get it, citing the top reasons as fear of discussing mental health concerns, fear of obtaining parent/caregiver permission and fear of not being taken seriously.

“This year’s event is particularly important,” Rhoton said in the release. “As we want not only our youth, but the community to hear directly from our courageous storytellers the validity in the concerns about these laws, and how we can work together to create a better path for LGBTQ+ youth who often feel there is not a space for them.”

In addition to helping fund housing, education, employment and support services for LGBTQ+ youth, the event will also help finance annual one-n-ten events and initiatives such as its Camp OUTdoors program, a summer camp that teaches youth leadership and community skill sets in a traditional summer camp setting.

To purchase tickets for one-n-ten’s National Coming Out Day fundraiser, visit onenten.org/comingout. For more about one-n-ten, check out onenten.org.