Nonprofits that serve the state’s LGBTQ communities have until April 13 to apply for grants of up to $10,000 through the Equity Action Fund at the Rhode Island Foundation.

“Proposals should encourage justice for, support or improve the quality of life of LGBTQ Rhode Islanders,” said Adrian Bonéy, the Foundation’s programs officer for the Equity Action Fund.

“Our program is open to organizations that traditionally have served Rhode Island’s LGBTQ communities as well as organizations that are working to initiate or expand LGBTQ-specific services,” she said.

There are two categories of grants: Projects that meet the priority needs of the LGBTQ communities and capacity-building grants for board development, strategic planning, program development, fundraising or other activities that build the capacity of organizations that play a vital and unique role in the LGBTQ communities. Organizations can receive one project or capacity-building grant award per year.

Last year, more than $50,000 was awarded to seven organizations, including Flickers – The Newport Film/Video Society & Arts Collaborative, GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders, New Urban Arts, Project Weber/RENEW, Sojourner House, Thundermist Health Center and Youth Pride.

 

The programs ranged from providing wellness and behavioral health services to the transgender community and offering services to survivors of LGBTQ+ and trans intimate partner violence to working on issues facing LGBTQ youth and families and staging an LGBTQ film showcase.

While the deadline to apply is April 13, the Foundation will accept proposals for grants of less than $2,500 throughout the year.

The Equity Action Fund is guided by a volunteer advisory committee comprised of community leaders. Since 2004, Equity Action has awarded nearly $770,000 in grants.

The Rhode Island Foundation is the largest and most comprehensive funder of nonprofit organizations in Rhode Island. In 2016, the Foundation awarded a record $45 million in grants to organizations addressing the state’s most pressing issues and needs of diverse communities. Through leadership, fundraising and grantmaking activities, often in partnership with individuals and organizations, the Foundation is helping Rhode Island reach its true potential.