Coming-Out Dinner Party 🏖️🌈

May 22 – 06 a 10 pm

Vigilia internacional en memoria de las personas fallecidas por VIH.
International Candlelight AIDS Memorial.

Domingo 7:30 PM – Sunday May 26th

February 24, 2024

February 5, 2024

Don Pickens has significantly shaped the LGBT community in Puerto Vallarta since his arrival in 2002. He founded Casa Cupula, the first LGBT luxury boutique hotel in the city, and spearheaded initiatives like TaxiSafe to address police corruption.

His diverse career includes critical roles at Microsoft and active involvement in local business and neighborhood associations.

Through his entrepreneurial spirit and dedication, Don promotes inclusivity and body positivity, using his extensive experience to foster a sustainable community center that empowers local talents.

Tina Kunkel has been a pillar in Puerto Vallarta’s LGBTQ+ and charitable communities. Tina is originally from Germany, where she graduated from a renowned School of Hotel Management with a degree in Tourism and Hotel Management.

Tina is fluent in Spanish, English, and German. Previously, she managed the Puerto Vallarta SPCA for three years.

“I fell in love with Puerto Vallarta when I moved here almost 20 years ago, and our large and vibrant gay community is one of the reasons why. My two favorite work experiences were working at Casa Cúpula, where I met so many amazing people from the LGBTQ+ community, and the meaningful work at the nonprofit animal shelter SPCA of Puerto Vallarta. Having this opportunity to work with the Vallarta Gay+ Community Center feels like a perfect match for me, and I’m excited to help grow this great project.”

Pedro López’s life story unfolds from his early childhood migration from Jalisco to the United States, where he grew up in downtown Los Angeles amidst undocumented immigrant communities.

Learning English as a second language and overcoming numerous challenges, Pedro’s resilience propelled him through nursing school, sparking a lifelong commitment to aiding underserved populations. With over three decades in various nonprofits focusing on mental health and safety nets, and a recent role as Vice President at a Mental Health Agency. Pedro, fulfilled his dream of moving back to Puerto Vallarta to continue his impactful work.

Behind every service, smile, and success story is a team of passionate individuals committed to equality, health, and community care. Together, we work every day to make a real difference for our LGBTQ+ family.