Super Nerdy, Super Fun Smash Brothers Tourney to Raise Funds for LGBTQ Community

EDWARDSVILLE, Ill - Nerd Alert! The Serenity Strategy Network is hosting its first fundraising event, a Nerdy Super Smash Brothers Tournament, on Friday, Aug. 24, at the Edwardsville American Legion Post #199, starting at 3 p.m.

Founded by Bryon Dawayne Pierson, Jr. while he was attending SIUE, The Serenity Strategy Network is a Social Technology software development company that looks to ease the lives of people in the LGBTQIA+ community and foster-care communities. The group's mission is to foster peace of mind for the LGBTQIA+ community in higher education and the workplace.

The rules of Friday's tournament can be found HERE.

The event is for ages 16+ and attendees are encouraged to come dressed in their "nerdiest" attire. Anyone dressed up will receive a $5 discount, and the best-dressed will receive a full refund up to $20. At least 150 to 200 people are expected to participate on Friday. Attendees must be 21+ to purchase alcohol. Non-alcoholic beverages will also be available.

Also planned by organizers is the introduction of a new drag queen themed app game under design that will challenge gender norms.

Ticket Pricing: $5 for spectators, $10 t-shirt for spectators, and $20 t-shirt and ticket for tournament players.

Further information on the tournament can be found on the Facebook Event.

The Serenity Strategy Network has already started working with a few colleges in the St. Louis area to implement their plan to help make higher education and workplace environments safer and more inclusive to the queer community.

"We have reached an exciting milestone that will further our company's mission," said Pierson. "Our development of "The Serenity Scorecard" and "The Serenity Index" presents us a powerful method of implementing The Serenity Plan.

"The Serenity Scorecard compiles an understanding of the resources available to the LGBTQIA+ community offered by institutions of higher education in the St. Louis area to the standards outlined in The Serenity Plan," added Pierson.