A new photography exhibit celebrating the voices and identities of LGBTQ+ youth and young adults in Adams County will ope on Thursday, May 30 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Waldo’s and Company in Gettysburg.
The event will feature powerful portraits by local photographer Wendy Halperin and serve as a fundraiser supporting organizations that empower LGBTQ+ youth in the region.
Titled “Embrace & Empower,” the exhibit honors the stories and self-expression of local LGBTQ+ youth. Participants received both individual and group portraits, with the option to be included in the public exhibit.
“It’s so important to see queer people existing in a variety of manners and ways. … This project evokes that; the youths who get to grow old and the youths who are not dead yet. It says we are here, we are here, we are here,” said one participant.
The opening night celebration will take place at Waldo’s and Company, with a concurrent display at Gettysburg Community Theatre. Both exhibits will remain on view through the month of June.
Funds raised during the event will benefit Waldo’s and Company, Gettysburg Community Theatre, and Gettysburg Pride—organizations that serve and uplift the local LGBTQ+ community.
For more information and to make an online donation please visit https://www.waldosandco.com/events.
The project is supported by the Nan Hatzes Memorial Fund Grant, Gettysburg Pride, and the 2025 STAR Grant from the Adams County Arts Council.