LGBT Network Wants To Stop Bullies In Their Tracks

LGBT Network is looking to put an end to bullying by continuing its anti-bullying education, prevention and outreach programs. On Saturday, September 17th, LGBT Network will present a Boot Camp Against Bullying & Breakfast at the home of Dr. Robert Moraru and Steve Barnes in East Hampton.

“Boot Camp Against Bullying is a great community-driven event bringing together local Hamptonites as a way to stomp out bullying,” explained Robert Vitelli, Chief Operating Officer of LGBT Network. “Now in its third year, the fitness fundraiser raises money to support the LGBT Network’s anti-bullying Safe Schools Initiative.”

The morning – which begins at 10 a.m. – will include a 45 minute Boot Camp workout led by Darcy Auguste from A-Skillful Touch, a healthy breakfast provided by Babette’s and Hampton Coffee Company, and a kids play area for little ones.

“The LGBT Network delivers anti-bullying workshops to students, trains teachers, runs awareness campaigns, and builds youth leadership to create safer schools for LGBT youth,” noted Vitelli. “This includes work in East End schools based out of the LGBT Network’s Hamptons Center in Sag Harbor at Old Whaler’s Church.” The Safe Schools Initiative looks to develop a school culture that fosters support, understanding, and respect for LGBT youth, families, and educators

The East End benefit is the brainchild of one of the Boot Camp Against Bullying & Breakfast’s hosts. “The event originated from a member of the community: Steve Barnes of East Hampton, who contacted me and said, ‘We’ve got to do something and we want to help,'” noted Vitelli. “The entire event was his great idea, and he and his husband Dr. Rob Moraru have hosted it each year and helped to make the event the great success it’s become. Each year we see more and more people, and each year we raise more money and raise more awareness.”

In a time where senseless tragedies like the Orlando nightclub shooting are occurring way too often, the work of LGBT Network has become even more vital. The goal of the organization is to stop homophobia and transphobia, to offer a place where the LGBT community always feels welcomed and comfortable, and to advocate for equality.

“The LGBT Network is grateful for all of the continued support of the local Hamptons community,” he added.

Admission to the Boot Camp Against Bullying & Breakfast is $50.

For more information, visit lgbtnetwork.org.