Be the change that you wish to see in the world.
— Mahatma Gandhi
There are so many things we would all like to change in this world. We would love to stop violence, eliminate homelessness, make sure no one is ever hungry again and solve other issues that keep so many people from living a happy, healthy, full life. But, it can be overwhelming. How and where do you start? Can I make a difference.
We can all make a difference by "being the change" we want. We start with doing what is within our power to change. We treat others the way we want to be treated, show respect for each other and getting involved. Start with one thing that makes a difference.
Here are some ways you can support your local community and make a difference.
LGBT Fund of Southwest Florida
The LGBT Community Fund of Southwest Florida is referred to as a “multi-donor fund,” which is a giving circle that engages like-minded individuals and organizations to increase philanthropic support in Southwest Florida for the unique challenges and opportunities facing Southwest Florida’s LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender) community.
This is a giving circle fund. Your contribution will be granted out each giving year to meet the needs of the community. Contributors who give $250 within the year will have a vote to determine grant focus areas.
Working groups will be selected by the Steering Committee of the Fund to focus on areas such as:
- Research – research of the LGBT community
- Needs – identification of needs of the LGBT community
- Annual Gathering – annual meeting to determine causes to be support
- Ad Hoc Working Groups –as needed for other identified areas.
Search Local Nonprofit Organizations
There are a large number of nonprofit organizations supporting our community. You can search our database to find causes you would like to support.
Love Your Rebellion is a 501(c)3 that empowers marginalized groups through the arts. LYR provides opportunities in the arts for women, people of color, immigrants, LGBTQIA individuals, people from low income communities, and people with disabilities. Our mission is accomplished by hiring people from marginalized groups to perform at music events; commission and showcase artists from marginalized groups; publish artists and writers from marginalized groups in the LYR magazine, and managing LYR's Zine Library in East Fort Myers.