Contents
Board Chair Message
President’s Message
Chamber Leadership
Corporate Partners
Events Calendar
Opportunities for Partnerships
Profile: Tamika Perry
Profile: Travis Gasper
Member Directory
On the Cover:
Beautiful Fall Color on Giant Cypress
Trees Reflected in the Clear Waters of the Frio River at Garner State Park, Texas
Vol. 3 | Issue 4 | Fall 2024
4123 Cedar Springs Road, Suite 1206
Dallas, TX 75219
(214) 821-4528
lgbtqchamber.com
Messsage from the Board Chair
Standing Firm Against Anti-LGBTQ+ Legislation: A Call to Action
As we approach the 89th Legislative Session next year, the North Texas LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce stands at a critical juncture. In the interim since the 88th Session, we have seen countless anti-LGBTQ+ bills become law in other states. We would be foolish not to anticipate these, as well as a new wave of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, will be proposed, threatening the progress we've fought so hard to achieve. These bills/laws serve no purpose other than to undermine the rights and freedoms of LGBTQ+ individuals, affecting everything from workplace protections to healthcare access and beyond.
We would like to advocate for policies that promote equity, inclusivity and economic opportunity for all. Instead, we must focus our energies on fighting harmful legislation. As the Chair of the Board, I want to emphasize the importance of resilience and action in the face of these challenges. We expect new assaults on members of the transgender community and LGBTQ+ children. In addition to harmful legislation, we must be aware that efforts will be made to drive wedges between segments of our community; we cannot let that happen. We must stand together and act when called upon.
The North Texas LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce sits at the crossroads of business and equality. We know that legislation powered by hate has far-reaching consequences, not just for LGBTQ+ individuals, but for businesses and communities across North Texas. Discriminatory laws create a hostile environment, deterring talent, investment and innovation.
Supporting the Chamber's efforts to secure LGBTQ+ rights are more important than ever. Our advocacy is not just about protecting what we have achieved; it’s about pushing forward to create a future where everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, is treated with dignity and respect. This includes speaking out against harmful legislation, promoting policies that advance equality, and ensuring that our voices are heard in Austin.
The Chamber, YOUR Chamber, will continue to work with Texas’ other LGBTQ chambers, other statewide organizations, local businesses, community leaders and policymakers to advocate for inclusive policies that benefit all North Texans. But we can't do it alone. We need your support — whether it's through membership, contributions or active participation in our advocacy efforts.
Together, we can make a difference. We can ensure that North Texas remains a place where everyone is free to live authentically, without fear of discrimination. I urge you to stand with us in this critical fight. Let's protect the progress we've made and continue to build a future where equality is not just a goal, but a reality for all.
Rachel Wolf • Board Chair
North Texas LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce
Message from the President
Growing Toward our 20th Anniversary
As the President and CEO of the North Texas LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce, I’m continually amazed by the creativity, energy, and dedication that each of our members bring to their work, the Chamber and our community. This was especially evident when the Chamber surpassed the 400-member milestone earlier this year. Thanks to you, our members, we hit this milestone in the lead-up to our 20th anniversary year. This significant achievement demonstrates the incredible power of our collective efforts. But as we celebrate, we also need to think about how we can keep this momentum going.
A chamber’s success depends on many factors, but none are more important than our members. Every new business that joins us doesn’t just add to our numbers — they bring fresh ideas, new opportunities and more resources for everyone. The easiest way to continue our growth is simple: If each of us recruits just one new member, we could double our size. It’s basic math.
Look around your network. Do you know a business owner who could benefit from all the Chamber has to offer? Or maybe you have a colleague who’s passionate about equality and interested in supporting our community and the Chamber’s mission to achieve equality through business? Potential members are out there. Surprisingly, the top reason businesses don’t join chambers of commerce is simply because they haven’t been asked. It’s true! Who do you know who is waiting to be asked?
When you invite new members to join the Chamber, you’re not just helping us grow — you’re offering others the opportunity to access the resources, support and connections that have helped your own business thrive. And let’s be real: This isn’t just about boosting our numbers. It’s about making our Chamber even stronger, more diverse and more united.
As we look ahead to 2025 and our 20th anniversary, let’s reflect on the incredible progress we’ve made and commit to doing our part by taking bold steps toward an even brighter future. If each of us recruits just one new member, we’ll not only double our size but also expand our impact across North Texas. Together, there’s no limit to what we can achieve as we continue to build a Chamber that leads in advocacy, economic equity and community building.
Tony Vedda, CCE, IOM • President & CEO
Chamber & Foundation Board Members
Suzanne Butler, CPA
Treasurer
Butler Accounting
Scott Carnes
Dave Perry-Miller
Real Estate
Clark Davis
Brinker International
Armando Gonzalez
Secretary
Goody Goody Liquor
Valerie Jackson
Hair & Now Electrolysis
Jacob Krysiak
General Counsel
Polsinelli, PC
Kevin McKeever
Toyota
Armando G. Ramirez
Reliance Mortgage
Gary Sanchez
Foundation Board Chair
Visit Dallas
Clint R. Thomson
Past Board Chair
DFW-MSP
Justin ‘’JT’’ Williams
LGBTQ Chamber Foundation
Chair Emeritus
Independence Title
Kevin Williams
American Airlines
Evie Wise
Wise Insurance Group
Rachel Wolf
Chamber Board Chair
Rolex
Staff
Tony Vedda, CCE, IOM
President & CEO
Lisa Howe
VP of Membership & Programs
Events Calendar
November
5 BEN Oak Lawn
https://lgbtqchamber.net/BENOL241105
6 BEN North Dallas
https://lgbtqchamber.net/BENND241106
7 Brewing Up Business Dallas
https://lgbtqchamber.net/BUBD241107
12 Business Connections Lunch Tarrant County
https://lgbtqchamber.net/BCLTC241112
14 BEN Cedar Springs
https://lgbtqchamber.net/BENCS241114
14 BEN Plano
https://lgbtqchamber.net/BENP241114
19 BEN Oak Lawn
https://lgbtqchamber.net/BENOL241119
20 Brewing Up Business Fort Worth
https://lgbtqchamber.net/BUBFW241120
20 BEN North Dallas
https://lgbtqchamber.net/BENND241120
20 New Member Showcase
https://lgbtqchamber.net/PHH241120
21 Queer Professionals Network
https://lgbtqchamber.net/QPNFW241121
December
3 BEN Oak Lawn
https://lgbtqchamber.net/BENOL241203
4 BEN North Dallas
https://lgbtqchamber.net/BENND241204
5 Brewing Up Business Dallas
https://lgbtqchamber.net/BUBD241205
10 Business Connections Lunch Tarrant County
https://lgbtqchamber.net/BLTC241210
18 Brewing Up Business Fort Worth
https://lgbtqchamber.net/BUBFW241218
TBA Pride Happy Hour/Holiday Party
Opportunities for Partnerships
The North Texas LGBTQ Chamber connects businesses and the community
When Traswell C. Livingston III, president/CEO of AIDS Services of Dallas (ASD), participated in the LGBTQ Chamber Foundation’s LGBTQ Leadership Institute program (Class of 2023) he realized some of the partnership opportunities in store for ASD and the Chamber.
“When I participated in the LGBTQ Leadership Institute, it exposed me to business owners and organization leaders,” Livingston says. “So, one of the biggest benefits to me, as a Chamber member, is the opportunity to work with other members. When we had a contracting opportunity, we solicited partners within the Chamber.”
For 37 years, ASD has served as a housing provider in the community for low income individuals and families living with HIV.
Livington’s organization recently partnered with Rusty Thornton and the company he co-owns with Ed Sanchez, Jr., Key Property Management, to manage one of its latest apartment developments, LA MAISON at 511. The brand new 16-unit apartment complex in Oak Cliff has been in the works since 2017. It offers several different floorplans ranging from efficiency suites to one bedrooms.
Thornton and Sanchez created Key Property Management, a four-year-old full-service property management company specializing in managing single- and multi-family housing.
“It was a gravitational fit that brought this idea into reality,” Thornton says. “We wanted to provide a place where we were not only owner-centric but also tenant-centric. We wanted to create longevity with tenants, take care of owners’ investments and create forever homes for tenants. It’s a different approach that’s innovative and transformative; there’s not that mentality in the market, and this is what makes us different.”
In an attempt to provide innovative property management services, Thornton and his partner Sanchez decided to create their own company, Key Property Management, which started with one property and now handles close to 40.
Thornton, who earned his real estate license five years ago, was out to set their company apart from other property management firms.
“We want quality over quantity and look for landlords who take care of tenants and properties,” he says. “We want to create a positive tenant culture and make sure our tenants are happy with where they’re living.”
Key Property Management is not just present at its properties, but also performs semi-annual inspections and handles issues almost immediately. It also works preventatively to cut off potential problems before they start.
“That has been successful for us,” Thornton says. “It’s just me and my partner behind the scenes making sure we follow property codes, take pragmatic approaches to issues and potential issues, and are constantly looking for areas of growth. It’s our very good working dynamic that helps us be successful in how we operate and present our company to tenants and landlords.”
In addition to working in real estate development, ASD partners and collaborates with the community and private developers to lend housing expertise to help their occupancy with tenants who may be receiving housing subsidies.
“We educate them about subsidy programs and how they work,” Livingston explains.
He notes that there is a huge barrier in the community and country with acceptance of these subsidies, particularly in the Dallas area.
“Many people are being denied housing in the community because they don’t have earned income at the rate of the private market, which earns three times the rent,” Livingston explains. “With a housing subsidy, tenants are receiving assistance with up to 70% of their housing cost. They make three times their rental portion but, to keep it affordable, it’s capped at 30%.”
ASD worked with the Key Property Management team on understanding the many housing subsidy programs. This allows Key Property Management to focus on compliance and day-to-day requirements of housing, leasing, renting, maintenance, etc.
“We’re helping them understand our governance on leasing and income biases, fair housing discrimination and supportive housing programs, in addition to why we do second chance leasing and help people with resources who may have a low credit score or lower income,” Livingston explains.
In addition to its partnership with ASD, Key Property Management has experienced other benefits since it joined the Chamber almost two years ago.
“This is a great avenue for us to network and get involved with the community, as well,” Thornton says. “The Chamber does a great job in bringing the community together with events and helps get our name out there. We look to the Chamber first to see who can help with our needs. We are excited to be an active member of the Chamber!”
As a Chamber Ambassador, Thornton also enjoys getting to know other local business owners and helping them navigate through the Chamber.
Livingston credits the Chamber as the connector that brought ASD and Key Property Management together.
“We couldn’t do what we do without a great partner like the Chamber,” Livingston says. “We look forward to partnering with other businesses in the community in the future.”
Providing Hope
to the Underserved
LGBTQ Leadership Institute gives Tamika Perry new tools for success
Timing is everything. Just prior to entering the LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce Foundation LGBTQ Leadership Institute, Tamika Perry became CEO of Dallas Hope Charities (DHC), an organization that provides food, shelter and services to those in need, and operates the Dallas Hope Center, the city’s LGBTQ-focused homeless youth transitional living center and extension program.
“I started out volunteering with DHC after working in nonprofit roles in Chicago for 25 years,” Perry says. “I moved out here seven years ago and, in 2017, volunteered with a meals program.” Tamika went from volunteer to house manager and finally CEO.
“DHC’s Hope Center houses eight LGBTQ youth for 12 months,” Perry says. “There is outreach in education, which is called the Outlet of Hope Coalition, to address issues of young LGBTQ adults. We also have Safe Place in partnership with the Dallas Police Department that utilizes window stickers for area businesses, which designate safe places for those who are harassed or feel afraid.”
DHC also runs Safe Spaces, a support group for parents parenting LGBTQ young adults and children. This program allows parents to share experiences with others and know they’re not alone in learning about their children.
“My role is making sure everything gets done,” Perry says. “I coordinate with the community and partners to bring services into Dallas Hope Charities and provide support to the community.”
However, when Perry first moved to Dallas, she didn’t have a strong sense of the city’s LGBTQ+ community. That’s where the LGBTQ Leadership Institute helped fill in the gaps.
“Running an LGBTQ organization, it’s important to know about Dallas and its culture. I wanted to know more about the history of how the LGBTQ+ community grew and how it managed its political stands to make everything more accessible and comfortable,” she says. “The LGBTQ Leadership Institute helped introduce me to organizations I didn’t know existed, since I wasn’t from Dallas.”
Perry is a 2022 graduate of the Leadership Institute, and now commits to sending one person from her staff to the program every year, as she views it as an important learning opportunity and experience.
“The North Texas LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce has become the best resource to learn more about the area’s history and connect with other organizations,” Perry says. “These are organizations vested in the community, so we want to connect with them. Having our staff participate in the LGBTQ Leadership Institute program gives each of them the chance to learn about the North Texas LGBTQ+ community, and an opportunity to create professional connections with those who are in the program with them.”
She emphasizes that it’s not just about taking Institute classes, but also serving as event donors and utilizing chamber resources.
“When you’re a nonprofit, you are a part of a community; the Leadership Institute allowed me to connect with organizations that are a part of the Chamber and individuals that are part of the community,” Perry says. “Being part of the LGBTQ Leadership Institute was impactful. While much of the program is centered around our history, it provides a foundation help us move into the future. The Chamber and the Chamber Foundation are really important connections for us.”
Emerging Leader Returns
2011 Emerging Leader becomes
a Chamber Member
In March 2012, the North Texas LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce presented its first Emerging Leader award for the prior year. The 2011 Emerging Leader award was given to Travis Gasper in recognition of his work at AIDS Interfaith Network (now Action and Information Network or AIN) working in development and fundraising.
“We did HIV prevention and provided direct services for those living with HIV,” he says. “I worked there for several years before attending law school, and the Chamber was a big supporter of our organization.”
Part of Gasper’s job at AIN involved fundraising and attending events to raise money and awareness. “I was both surprised and honored to get that recognition,” he says. Fast forward more than a decade, and Gasper is now an estate planning attorney.
“I was invited to one of the Chamber’s Business Exchange Network meetings,” he says. “At the meeting, I saw Candy Marcum, who has been involved in the Chamber since its founding in 2007. She revealed that she nominated me for the Emerging Leader award, which was so flattering and humbling.”
Gasper expressed his appreciation, sending Marcum an email after the event, along with a Japanese Bonsai tree, saying how grateful he was to be in the business networking group with her. “After that first meeting, Tony Vedda, the Chamber’s CEO, revealed that I had actually received two nominations, one from Candy, and the other from another long-time Chamber member, JT Williams, who also happens to be in the same BEN group.”
Since being honored as an Emerging Leader, Gasper earned his law degree and is in his eighth year of practice in North Texas. He helps individuals and families protect their assets and loved ones with comprehensive estate planning. “Now, being a Chamber member seems like a great and natural fit, and I don’t know what took me so long,” Gasper says. “I was asked a month ago by someone I met through AIN to join.”
Rick Adams, owner of The UPS Store on Lemmon, and leader of the Chamber’s Business Exchange Network, Oak Lawn group had lunch with Gasper and told him there was a spot open in the group for an estate planning attorney. He said it would be a great fit.
“Rick invited me to the next lunch meeting, and I recognized half the people who were there,” Gasper says. “I ended up joining the Chamber and the BEN group that week.” He adds that the North Texas LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce is well respected and looked up to in the community, so it’s great to finally be a member.
“I want to educate and inform the community about estate planning, since so many people don’t have any plan in place,” Gasper says. “It doesn’t matter how much money you have or how old you are, it’s important to make your wishes known and make sure loved ones are protected and provided for. I want to partner with the Chamber to educate and help empower people to let them know they have options.”
One of the things Gasper is focusing on is encouraging people in the LGBTQ+ community and allies to ask the companies they are dealing with if they are part of the North Texas LGBTQ Chamber and if not, encourage them to become members. “I want to encourage them to join, because it’s a good thing for all involved,” Gasper says. “Members of the LGBTQ+ community and our allies should take advantage of the Chamber’s membership directory, as it’s a great resource to find someone in the community who is active, engaged and committed to the Chamber’s mission to achieve equality.”
