About Us

LGBTQ+ Community and Beyond

Our goal is to showcase Denver's vibrant LGBTQ+ sports scene, rich culture, and diverse arts, illustrating how the city can "Change the World" by hosting Gay Games XIII. Committed to advancing LGBTQ+ empowerment and unity, GGDen2030 aims to create a world where everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, feels a profound sense of belonging and pride. We strive to foster inclusivity, break down barriers, and champion diversity through sports, cultural events, and community outreach.

Beyond the event, our vision extends to leaving a lasting legacy of acceptance, equality, and unity. We aspire to celebrate achievements, amplify voices, and promote understanding within the LGBTQ+ community and beyond. Join us in driving change, pushing boundaries to shape a future where love knows no bounds, and where the 2030 Gay Games in Denver become a symbol of resilience, and progress for the LGBTQ+ community and its allies. Together, let's build a world where everyone can play, compete, and thrive.

Meet the Committee

The GGDen2030 Bid Committee builds on the success of the Denver 2022 Bid Committee, inheriting valuable experience, skills, resources, and local connections. Our empowering leadership team, representing diverse facets of Colorado’s LGBTQ+ community, has the autonomy to form dynamic teams. Guided by a dedicated Board of Directors, our committee takes a strategic approach to Sports and Culture Programming, LGBTQ+ and Community Outreach, Finance, Fundraising, Volunteerism, and Government Affairs. Our multigenerational force blends Baby Boomers, Gen X, and Millennials, fostering a dynamic environment and paving the way for LGBTQ+ leaders. Most members have firsthand experience with the transformative power of the Gay Games, ensuring our bid reflects the heart and soul of Denver's LGBTQ+ community.

Lance Husak (he/him)

Bid Committee Co-Chair | lance@ggden2030.com

Courtney von Bergen (she/her)

Bid Committee Co-Chair | courtney@ggden2030.com

Eli Joren (he/him)

Bid Committee Sports Director | eli@ggden2030.com

Matthew Payne (he/him)

VISIT DENVER & Denver Sports Commission | mpayne@denversports.org

Amy Bryant (they/them)

Bid Committee Cultural Director | amy@ggden2030.com

R. Tony Smith (he/him)

Bid Committee Public Relations Director | tony@ggden2030.com

Eli Rutherford (he/him)

Bid Committee Fundraising Director | eli.r@ggden2030.com

Matthew Bendure (he/him)

Bid Committee Communications Director | matthew@ggdden2030.com

Nick Sophinos (they/them)

Bid Committee Finance Director | nick@ggden2030.com

Keenan Kanaeholo (he/him)

Bid Committee Marketing Director | keenan@ggden2030.com

Jeff Wilson (he/him)

Digital Content & Social Media | jeff@ggden2030.com

Federation of Gay Games

The Gay Games and its international Federation exist to serve the needs of athletes, artists, and advocates. The mission is to promote equality for all, and in particular for LGBTQ+ people throughout the world. As the world’s largest sports and cultural event open to all, the Gay Games have created and nurtured a movement that has become among the greatest forces for community empowerment and social change. The first Gay Games were held in San Francisco in 1982 and take place every four years. Recent Gay Games have been held in Cleveland+Akron 2014, Paris 2018, Gay Games 11 Hong Kong 2023, Gay Games Guadalajara 2023, and Oficina Gay Games Valencia in 2026. The mission of the Federation is to promote equality through LGBTQ+ and gay-friendly sports and cultural events known as the Gay Games. This mission is guided by the principles of Participation, Inclusion, and Personal Best. Learn more at www.GayGames.org

Connect with Us!

Embark on the journey towards inclusivity and empowerment with GGDen2030! 🏳️‍🌈 Together, let's make history and celebrate the spirit of unity, diversity, and progress. 🌈 Join us on this incredible adventure – follow, engage, and stay connected! #GGDen2030