Washington, D.C. – Thanks to member support and corporate sponsorship of their annual Capital Classic Tournament, the Capital Tennis Association (CTA) raised $7,500 to support the Capitol Hill-based Sexual Minority Youth Assistance League (SMYAL).

Each year, the Capital Classic Tournament enlists numerous CTA members, tournament participants, and community partners to channel their enthusiasm for tennis into philanthropic activities within the DC metro area. The 2009 event, held Sept. 12-14, was presented by Brandon Green, founder and president of Brandon Green companies, who presented the check in person alongside tournament organizer Matthew Feinberg.

“SMYAL is honored to have been selected as the beneficiary of the 2009 Capital Classic Tournament,” said SMYAL Executive Director Andrew Barnett. “Now more than ever, the donations of individuals and community groups are vital in ensuring SMYAL continues to deliver high-quality programs for local LGBTQ youth.” SMYAL, founded in 1984, is the DC metro area’s premier nonprofit service organization dedicated solely to supporting lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) youth. Their mission is to promote and support self-confident, healthy, productive lives for LGBTQ youth, which they accomplish through programs held at their newly renovated youth center. Information on SMYAL’s programs and services can be found at www.SMYAL.org.

Since 1994, the CTA has worked to coordinate and promote the sport of tennis within the local gay and lesbian community. They provide casual and organized tennis programs for participants to compete and socialize in a supportive atmosphere with other sports enthusiasts. More information on the CTA can be found at www.Capital-Tennis.org.

About SMYAL 

The Sexual Minority Youth Assistance League (SMYAL) is the only Washington, DC metro area service organization solely dedicated to supporting lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) youth. Founded in 1984, SMYAL is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization. SMYAL’s mission is to promote and support self-confident, healthy, productive lives for LGBTIQ youth ages 13-21 as they journey from adolescence into adulthood. To fulfill our mission, we concentrate our commitment and energy on five focus areas: (1) Life Skills & Leadership Development, (2) Counseling & Support, (3) Health & Wellness Education, (4) Safe Social Activities, and (5) Community Outreach and Education.