MOUNT POCONO, PA — The Pocono Pride Coalition celebrated the start of Pride Month at the first-ever Pride Fest Kickoff and Champions of Pride Awards Ceremony, held at Mount Airy Casino Resort on May 31.

The ceremony recognized the region’s “stellar LGBTQ+ and ally business owners, professionals and community leaders whose work and dedication empower and unite LGBTQ+ and allied people through their leadership, service and support.”

The inaugural awardees are: Person of the Year—Corinne Goodwin, executive director, Eastern PA Trans Equity Project; Business of the Year—Camp Out Poconos; and Ally of the Year—Mount Airy Casino Resort.

The Eastern PA Trans Equity Project is dedicated to empowering transgender people in Eastern Pennsylvania. It offers transgender legal name change services, support groups, financial aid services, and other programming. It serves 33 counties, including Wayne and Pike.

Camp Out Poconos is a camping resort that “celebrates inclusivity and diversity, providing a safe and welcoming environment for all guests.” Camp Out Poconos sponsors events like the Pocono Pride Fest.

Mount Airy Casino Resort has a charitable arm, the Mount Airy Foundation, that has donated more than $1 million in cash grants, in-kind and merchandise donations, and corporate sponsorships to nonprofits throughout Northeast Pennsylvania.