A Season of Growth, Connection, and Celebration

Spring has a way of reminding us what’s possible.

I love this time of year—the quiet chill in the morning that wakes you up just enough, followed by sunlight that warms your face and lifts your spirit. My irises are blooming, the bees are buzzing, and everywhere you look, life is stretching, growing, and beginning again. It’s rejuvenating. And as I reflect on the Sacramento Rainbow Chamber of Commerce this April, I can’t imagine a better metaphor for where we are right now.

Our Chamber is in a season of growth.

This year, as we celebrate our 25th anniversary, we are seeing our community continue to expand—new members joining, new relationships forming, and long‑standing connections deepening. Like spring itself, this growth didn’t happen overnight. It’s the result of care, consistency, and commitment from each of you who show up, support our mission, and believe in the power of an inclusive business community.

April also invites us to pause, reflect, and stand in solidarity with important moments within our LGBTQ+ community. This month includes International Asexuality Day (April 6), National Youth HIV & AIDS Awareness Day and Day of Silence (April 10), National Transgender HIV Testing Day (April 18), Nonbinary Parents Day (April 19), andLesbian Visibility Week and Day (April 20–26). These observances remind us that visibility, advocacy, and care remain essential—especially as we work to ensure our Chamber is a place where every identity is welcomed and affirmed.

Connection continues to be at the heart of everything we do. I hope you’ll join us for our Lunch & Networking event on April 21 at Bear & Crown—one of my favorite ways to connect with fellow members, strengthen relationships, and support our vibrant local business community. These gatherings are where ideas spark, collaborations take root, and our Chamber truly comes alive.

Looking ahead, I’m especially excited about our special Drag Queen Bingo on May 7, which coincides with the Big Day of Giving. This event is nearly sold out—and for good reason. It’s a joyful, high‑energy way to support the Chamber while having an unforgettable time together. Moments like these remind us that giving back doesn’t just fuel our mission—it brings us together in celebration.

As we mark 25 years of the Sacramento Rainbow Chamber of Commerce, I keep coming back to that image of spring: roots planted firmly, blossoms opening wide, and a future full of possibility. Thank you for being part of this season—your presence, your support, and your belief in our shared vision make all the difference.

Here’s to continued growth, meaningful connection, and a year worthy of celebrating all that we’ve built—together.

Welcome our Newest Member

Sacramento Region Community Foundation

Our vision is a thriving and resilient region where generosity and collaboration create equitable opportunity and our mission is to lead, serve, and inspire enduring philanthropy for a just and vibrant Sacramento region.

Website: http://www.sacregcf.org

Scholarships are OPEN!

The Sacramento Rainbow Chamber Foundation is proud to announce that our scholarship applications are now officially open.

We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to pursue their goals, no matter how they identify or where they come from. Through our scholarship program, we are committed to supporting students in our community as they take the next step in their educational journey.

If you or someone you know is ready to invest in their future, we encourage you to Apply today HERE.

What's going on with the Chamber?

Our next Lunch & Networking Mixer is just around the corner—come connect with fellow Chamber members, meet new faces, and enjoy a great midday networking opportunity. Register HERE

Get ready for one of our most anticipated nights of the year—our

Big Day of Giving Drag Queen Bingo is back and almost sold out. This high-energy evening brings together community, celebration, and a whole lot of personality, all in support of the Sacramento Rainbow Chamber Foundation.

This is the one night a year where every seat is reserved in advance—no walk-ins, no maybes—just a packed room of supporters showing up for a great cause. Proceeds from the evening directly support scholarships and programs that uplift and empower our LGBTQ+ community.

If you’ve been thinking about attending, now is the time to secure your spot—this one will sell out.



Get your tickets HERE

Save the date—this is one you won’t want to miss.

The Sacramento Rainbow Chamber of Commerce is celebrating 25 years of impact, connection, and community at this year’s Boas & Bow Ties Gala, and we’re doing it in true Studio 54 style. Think disco, glamour, and a night that turns all the way up.

Join us at the Hilton Arden West for an unforgettable evening filled with entertainment, celebration, and a few fabulous surprises along the way. This isn’t your average gala—it’s a full experience.

Mark your calendars. Start planning your look. And get ready to celebrate 25 years of bold, vibrant community with us.

More details coming soon.

Ways to get involved..

Volunteering at PRIDE is one of the many perks of being a Sacramento Rainbow Chamber member. It’s a chance to represent your business, connect with the community, and be part of one of the biggest events of the year. Show up, get involved, and be part of something meaningful.

Interested? Sign up here

From our Chamber Members & Partners

The 2026 Sacramento Pride 5K Run and Walk is a celebration of the strength, perseverance and love of the LGBTQ+ community. Whether you're a fitness novice or a seasoned runner, this is a wonderful way to experience Pride Month along with your friends, family and allies. Let's get our hearts racing toward the rainbow finish line! Join us in Old Sac in front of the California Railroad Museum and get ready to show your pride!

Learn more & Sign up HERE

Subscribe. Share. Advertise.

It all matters more than you think.

www.OutwordMagazine.com

The Sacramento Rainbow Chamber of Commerce is proud to share an exciting opportunity from our Gold Partner, SMUD. Their Shine Awards program is now open for organizations and community partners with ideas that can make a real impact.

The Shine Awards program provides funding for community projects focused on zero carbon workforce development, affordability and resiliency, economic development, and energy or STEM education. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, chambers, and community-based organizations within SMUD’s service area, with funding opportunities 

ranging from $5,000 to $100,000.

SMUD is hosting online information sessions throughout March, April, and May to help you learn more. Applications will be open from June 1 through July 31.

When:

• Wed, April 8, 2–4 PM (virtual)
• Tue, April 14, 9–11 AM (virtual)
• Fri, April 24, 10–12 PM (in person at SMUD HQ)
• Wed, April 29, 1–3 PM (virtual)
• Wed, May 6, 10–12 PM (virtual)
• Tue, May 12, 10–12 PM (virtual)

REGISTER HERE

Each workshop runs about 45–60 minutes, with extra time for your questions and project ideas.

We encourage our members and partners to explore this opportunity and consider how your organization can bring a meaningful project to life.

Learn more at smud.org/Shine