Who are we?  Cleveland Couples Together (CCT), formerly Monotones, was established in 1986 by a small group of gay and lesbian couples searching for a social outlet that fostered an atmosphere of openness and acceptance, while still respecting each couple’s commitment to one another.

Today, the group has expanded to include not only gay and lesbian couples, but also those who identify as bisexual and transgendered.

Our membership includes individuals from every imaginable walk of life, a variety of ethnic backgrounds and boasts a very diverse age range. In addition, the group is composed of a healthy mix of both male and female couples.

What is the average age of your members?  Though we have a very diverse age range and exact age demographics have not yet been collected, the average age range is estimated to be in the mid 40’s, with actual member ages ranging from the late 20's to mid 70's.

Do you allow singles in the group?  Since our focus is geared primarily toward LGBT couple interaction, singles are not permitted to join the group. However, singles have been known to attend various group events. Our events are open to non-members and to whomever else the host couple invites to the events.

What activities does the group do?  As a group we enjoy many educational, social, cultural and outdoor events together. But mostly we just like to have fun. Examples of past activities include: Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad tours, holiday parties, movie/game nights, concerts, picnics, museum trips, camping weekends, anniversary nights, swim parties, progressive dinners, clambakes, craft nights, potlucks, wine tastings, bird watching, and rock climbing. The possibilities are endless.

Who plans the activities and when?  Each group activity is planned by a member couple, designated the “host couple,” who is given charge of organizing the entire event. The host couple will usually attend a planning meeting to present the idea to the board and to gauge interest in the proposed activity. If the proposed event is determined to be a “go,” an assigned time will be allotted, so as to not conflict with other scheduled CCT events.

What is a host couple?  A host couple is the couple in charge of organizing a specific activity or event. For example, the host couple is responsible for ensuring that the correct number of reservations are made for a restaurant event (even if reservations are not required). Member couples who accept responsibility for scheduling an activity or event are designated the "host couple" for that specific activity or event.

How are events or activities communicated?  All upcoming and pending events or activities are initially announced in the member newsletter which is emailed to all members on a monthly basis. Couples who do not have email access receive their copy via U.S. Mail. Approximately four weeks before the event, an Evite is sent out to members electronically. Use of the Evite system allows the host couple to track interest in their event and to determine a final head count for the event. If a member couple does not have internet access, but wishes to attend an event, that couple will need to communicate his or her interest in attending a specific event to the host couple.

What is Evite?  Evite is a free internet service the group uses to inform members of upcoming activities or events. The Evite is distributed electronically via email and contains details about the event as well as RSVP capability.

When are the planning meetings and where are they held?  Our monthly planning meetings are held on the first Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. In an effort to accommodate our entire membership, we alternate east-side and west-side meeting venues from month to month. Our meetings are open to anyone with an interest in the group. Members will receive notification of the planning meetings via Evite. Please contact us via phone or email to obtain information on the next meeting location.

What is the purpose of the monthly planning meeting?  Planning meetings are held each month to discuss use of CCT funds, potential upcoming events, content for the newsletter such as personal news and members only events, and other administrative functions of the group.

How much are dues?  Annual dues are $50.00 per couple. If a couple joins in the middle of the fiscal year, the dues are prorated according to the month that they join the group.

Why are dues collected?  Dues are collected to cover the administrative/operating costs of the group and to raise monies for charitable donation. Additionally, the group sponsors one or two “members only” events per year, the cost for which is off-set in whole or in part by group funds.

Are there officers or a board that oversees the group?  There are four couples who are elected annually to various positions within the group and act as the officers of the group. The different offices are Chair, Co-Chair, Secretary, and Treasurer.

2007 Pride: Folks signing up to join the CCT family.