CORAL Honored at Phoenix Center Gayla

Springfield, IL (October 25, 2025) Since 2011, CORAL has been a proud supporter of the Phoenix Center’s annual Fall Gayla and looked forward to attending every year.  With their silent auctions, entertainment, and a brief moment to socialize with those we may not see but once a year, it has always been a memorable event to gather and enjoy.  With all the transitioning and change the Phoenix Center has seen in the past year, this year’s event proved to be an opportunity to see a revitalized, energized, and confident organization ready to take on their new future.

So, imagine CORAL’s surprise to be so prominently honored this year with receipt of the Community Partner with Pride award.  This award was begun in 2012 and has been given to such notable partners as Club Station House, Illinois Times, SIU Gender Equity Clinic, and many others.  CORAL is genuinely grateful to be recognized with such a group and look forward to continuing our partnership with the Phoenix Center in the many years to come.

These were the words shared by the executive director, Teresa Silva, before announcing CORAL as the recipient of this award:

“This next award is long overdue. The Community Partner With Pride Award recognizes a business or organization whose generosity and profound support make our mission possible. This year, one organization stands out as the only possible choice.

This award goes to an organization that has opened their hearts, their doors, and their resources to us during a difficult transitional year. They have shown up for every one of our events, checked in on our staff's mental health, shared their resources, and consistently offered leadership and guidance. They made sure the entire Phoenix community felt invited and welcomed in their space, standing by us in every way possible.

It would be impossible not to recognize the incredible support of the Coalition of Rainbow Alliances. We are so excited to be the community partner you deserve, and we can’t wait to see what great things our two organizations do together.”

Thank you, Phoenix Center!