Washington, D.C. (February 19, 2010) – Thom Bierdz will be attending and doing a live painting to be auctioned off to support OUT for Work on Saturday, March 6 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Mova Lounge (formerly Halo) at 1435 P Street NW, Washington, D.C. 

Thom Bierdz is the first openly gay actor to play an openly gay character, Phillip Chancellor III, on CBS' The Young & the Restless, daytime’s #1 drama.  Last year, Thom received the Human Rights Campaign Visibility Award for his work on behalf of the mentally ill. In addition to acting, Thom is a published author and artist, and will create an original painting to be auctioned at the conclusion of the fundraising event. 

The live painting event will raise funds for OUT for Work. According to OUT for Work’s Founder, Riley Folds, "Not only will this be a fun event, but it will help us raise the much needed funds to support the empowerment of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and Ally college students transitioning from academia to the workplace." 

The fundraiser, open to all, will feature a reception from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. with complimentary wine, cash bar, and heavy hors d'oeuvres.   The suggested attire is casual.  Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at www.outforwork.org or $35 at the door. 

OUT for Work is a registered 501(c)3 headquartered in Washington, DC. The organization functions as a complementary component in the total educational experience of LGBT students, primarily in the development, evaluation, initiation and implementation of career plans and opportunities. OUT for Work’s programs, resources and services provide assistance to students in the cultivation and enhancement of skills to explore career options, master search techniques and strategies and research employment opportunities dedicated to the education, preparedness and empowerment of LGBTQA talent in the workplace. 

For more information about Thom Bierdz, please visit www.thombierdz.com.