SAN DIEGO -- The recent rash of LGBT teen suicides makes the lifesaving work of The Trevor Project become more important than ever.

Since 1998, the organization has worked to end suicide among LGBTQ youth by providing life-saving and life-affirming resources throughout the United States.

Locally, the San Diego Ambassadors of the Trevor Project formed nearly a year ago and will celebrate the milestone with a fundraising party for the parent organization.

The First Anniversary Pep Rally Cocktail Party will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 18, at Eden, 1202 University Ave. in Hillcrest. Tickets to support the work of the Trevor Project are $42 and are tax deductible and include a drink and appetizers.

Forrest Wright, one of the San Diego Ambassadors, promises a fun evening.

“True to our theme, this is going to look and feel like a pep rally,” he said.

Since the pep rally will be held inside San Diego’s newest night spot in Hillcrest, people can expect a slight twist on the traditional theme.

“Be expecting cheerleaders, great cocktails and snacks, an awesome venue, like-minded people, and a few surprises,” Wright said.

One of the goals of the local chapter is to get Trevor Project's free resources and Lifeguard workshops available in every San Diego County middle and high school district.

Ambassadors have been working with teachers, administrators, counselors and politicians to achieve this goal, while focusing on fundraising for The Trevor Project so it can continue to provide its resources and services free of charge in San Diego County and nationwide.

Wright says he was drawn to The Trevor Project because of his empathy for the kids who are struggling through an already difficult time in their lives and his passion to help them.

“It’s not hard to imagine the pressures of coming to terms with sexuality, gender identity, bullying, coming out, isolation and fear,” Wright said.

“We want to make sure these youth realize they have these free resources at their disposal ... and that things really will get better.”

At the event, guests will have the opportunity to learn how they can get involved with this lifesaving work.

Wright says the easiest and first way to get involved with The Trevor Project is to “Like” the Ambassadors' page on Facebook. On the page, updates and involvements opportunities are regularly posted.

The Ambassadors, who made their San Diego debut at Gay Pride 2009, will be available to speak with interested volunteers, supporters and donors at the pep rally. Look for the Ambassadors dressed in orange!

“The fact that so many of these kids feel like suicide is their best solution is simply not acceptable,” Wright said.

“It’s up to everyone to make sure these kids feel understand and supported and The Trevor Project is a great platform for doing that ... just by showing up at the event, you’re supporting a great cause!”

More information about The Trevor Project is available online. Pep rally sponsors are Eden, ChileCo Bistro & Catering, SDGLN and SD PIX.