Holidays in 2000. A friend of mine and I felt out of touch and out of place.

Twenty years ago in my apartment, we held our first gathering with absolutely zero fanfare (and no name).  It went on to become a monthly friendmaker and fundraiser, known as OurNightOut.

The monthly event grew organically and by way of the individual, duo, and group hosts and venues that were chosen. Later, we collaborated with local organizations and grew the participation. In 2007, OurNightOut joined forces with DVLF (Delaware Valley Legacy Fund) to launch the annual Toy event which at the time was a fundraiser to support Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. The annual event occurs again later today—virtually, of course.

[In the photo L to R: Susan DiPronio, Stormy Lundy, Mark Mitchell, Chris Cordone]