05/04/2024
I am deeply saddened by the difficult decision to cease operations. The decision that I was part of.
As the co-founder with my daughter Mia, I understand and know that this recent decision has created big feelings. I am also heartbroken and devastated as is Mia.
Animosity and division that can occur from these difficult decisions is so far from why I believed and battled to keep Outloud alive for 10 years.
Creating community, a team and standing up for what is right is the premise of what Outloud was built on.
I have taken on many rolls in the last years; janitor, builder, bookkeeper, cheerleader, advocate, mover, float builder, executive director and currently as fundraiser.
I did not take a wage for 9 of my 10 years with Outloud in order to keep it alive.
Ensuring that the staff could survive while doing this outstanding work has been my first priority.
Over the last year funds have continued to get tighter and tighter, harder, and harder to get. We have held on and held on until now but we can’t anymore.
If the community needs to be mad at someone be mad at me I am the fundraiser.
What I know is that before we ever had our own space, a full team and a lot of stuff; the tiny steps did make a difference.
I am confident that this community will ensure our youth continue to be supported. Don’t doubt the impact that gathering with 3 people in a park makes.
Terry Soetaert – Founder of Outloud
780 990 6518
