November 2004 – Worcester and the surrounding area are full of great businesses and choosing the best one to patronize can be a challenge. Now consumers have another reason to support local businesses. Greater Worcester Equality Network (GWEN) has just launched a new business network of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and straight allies. The GWEN business network has several new members who are all committed to providing excellent, dependable service to the GLBT community and its supporters. From restaurants to attorneys, the GLBT consumer is going to have a lot of services to choose from.

When GWEN was first formed back in March, it was the opinion of many members that Worcester residents needed to support more local industries, particularly gay-friendly and gay-owned businesses. Members of organization also wanted a GLBT person to feel comfortable when choosing a carpenter, financial advisor or caterer. The business network will give positive energy and support to the GLBT community, as well as a financial boost to gay-friendly small businesses.

When choosing local business, many consumers rely on word of mouth and reputation. Not only will the GWEN business network provide this, but it will also feature gay-friendly businesses on the GWEN website, which is under construction. Any business that is supportive of its customers regardless of their sexual orientation is eligible to be listed and will benefit, because members of the GLBT community will support those who provide great service and make everybody feel comfortable in their establishment.

Al Toney is a member of the GWEN business network, a business owner and a gay man. He works as an education and diversity consultant with AK Consulting in Jefferson, MA. He and his spouse, Keith Toney, are also sculptors. Both men have expressed an interest in helping their community thrive. “I want to support others who support my community and share my beliefs,” Toney says.

In supporting other gay owned or gay friendly businesses, Al and Keith Toney know that their needs will be met with the utmost respect and understanding, and they in turn will provide the same type of service to their clients. This is particularly critical when dealing with legalities, such as wills and taxes. “If I know somebody who’s a gay lawyer, I know that they will be conscious of my needs,” Toney says.

The addition of same-sex marriages in Massachusetts has sparked a new market for merchants in the wedding industry. Many local businesses, such as caterers, DJs and photographers, are expected to join the GWEN business network for its competitive edge. Any couple that is planning a wedding, whether gay or straight, knows that the services they will need should come from professional personable experts. When choosing a venue for instance, a GLBT couple will want not only a beautiful location that meets all of their logistical needs, but a place where the couple can be themselves and their guests can feel comfortable.

Any business owner who is interested in joining the GWEN business network is welcome. Gay-friendly businesses are considered valuable to the GLBT community in the same way that gay-owned businesses are. Businesses that provide great service and are proud to be supportive of all of their clients’ needs are encouraged to join.

Whether your business is house painting, real estate or law, you can benefit from joining this network of professionals. Meetings will be held monthly. For more information about the GWEN business network, please contact GWEN’s secretary, Frances Graveson at fgraveson@charter.net.