Boston-based non-profit, Verna Felton, launched their website last week. The non-profit aims to support LGBTQ+ emerging adults interested in drag by applying the green concept of “reduce, reuse, recycle”. Verna Felton encourages anyone who may have one of a kind, beloved statement pieces such as drag costumes, dresses or gowns that have been relegated to closets and storage to be donated to LGBTQ+ young people who have an interest in drag but lack the financial resources to purchase such garments. I think of it as giving these sequins and sparkles previously worn to parties, tea dances and cruises an opportunity to shine in the spotlight once again.
The popularity of drag is hard to deny. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, drag was experiencing a renaissance. Drag nights, brunches and contests were everywhere, and the growing popularity of shows like RuPaul’s Drag Race has helped fuel the interest in drag with LGBTQ+ youth.
Scottie Gage conceived of the non-profit after he realized he had a closet brimming with statement pieces he was no longer using or intended to wear again and wanted to share with other young men who could make new memories with their friends in these clothes.
Recognizing that many gay men have garments that no longer fit or will be worn again provides a thoughtful approach and alternative to discarding these items. In addition to providing a practical solution to gift drag costuming, Verna Felton aims to be a resource for LGBTQ+ young people seeking additional clinical and behavioral health resources.
For more information about how to help support this non-profit financially and through clothing donations, or if you would like to learn more about how to receive a donated garment from Verna’s closet, please visit, vernafelton.org.
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