(MBA) operates as Central Florida’s LGBTQ+ chamber of commerce. The Metropolitan Business Association, Inc. The organization shall operate as a subsidiary corporation of the Metropolitan Business Association, Inc., a 501c6 corporation. The organization does not have general members, nor does it collect membership dues of any kind. To provide financial support to other LGBTQ+-oriented non-profit organizations in the local area through the making of grants made possible by the proceeds from each year’s event.ĬOWP is an organization that is run by an appointed board of directors, as set out in these Bylaws.To create a welcoming and accepting organization, through being positive role models for our LGBTQ+ and allied communities.To provide reasonable and sufficient outreach to the LGBTQ+ and allied communities about the organization itself, its purposes and intents, and all events and activities sponsored by it.To foster communication, tolerance, and mutual support among LGBTQ+ persons and the allied communities.To oppose prejudice in society at large and within the LGBTQ+ and allied communities on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity.To encourage fellowship and support among participating businesses, professionals, individuals, and charitable pursuits in the LGBTQ+ and allied communities.To produce an annual pride event that fosters a sense of community, encourages LGBTQ+ citizens to live openly and with pride, and educates the general public of our shared cultural heritage.The guiding principles of COWP are as follows: To produce the annual Come Out With Pride event and related events, which serve as Central Florida’s lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ+) pride event and encourages the LGBTQ+ citizens and their allies of Central Florida and beyond to celebrate pride in themselves, their community, and their shared cultural history. SECTION II: PURPOSE Subsection 2-1 Mission Statement The name of the organization shall be Come Out With Pride, Inc.