Ciora Thomas’ Post

The LGBTQ Commission has opened up applications for this year's Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) Grants through the Denver Arts & Culture Fund! The goal of these grants is to support non-profit organizations that, through arts and culture, elevate the communities represented by each of the Human Rights and Community Partnerships (HRCP) Commissions, and that exemplify the tenets of equity, diversity, inclusion and social justice. Each Commission, including the LGBTQ Commission, can award 1-2 grants of $5,000 or $10,000, using the following requirements: ✅ Projects must take place within the City and County of Denver ✅ Projects must have an arts, culture or creative component ✅ Projects with a focus on social justice efforts will receive high consideration ✅Organization must be a nonprofit (501c3 or has a fiscal sponsor) ✅Funds must be spent within a year of receipt Apply here by June 23rd: https://lnkd.in/eC8Ut5Ak Know an org who would be a good fit? Nominate them here: https://lnkd.in/eeR6MPwZ

A Critical Mission: Supporting Mental Health Among Black LGBTQ Youth Recent data highlights a concerning trend: Black youth who identify as LGBTQ are significantly more likely to contemplate suicide than their peers. This is not just a statistic; it's a call to immediate action. "A Cup of Tea with a Black Woman" is on the front lines, advocating for mental health support and intervention strategies tailored to the unique needs of Black LGBTQ youth. Our programs are designed to offer not just support, but empowerment, understanding, and paths to resilience. We need your help to reach more young people in need. Your donation can fund critical resources, support groups, and educational initiatives that make a tangible difference. Let’s unite in this vital effort to ensure that Black LGBTQ youth across the nation receive the support and affirmation they deserve. Your contribution today is an investment in a brighter, more inclusive tomorrow. To make a donation, please visit our website. -> https://lnkd.in/ghcDC6s2 Together, we can create lasting change. #MentalHealthSupport #LGBTQYouth #SocialImpact #ACupOfTeaWithABlackWoman

🌈 Celebrating Pride: More Than Identity, It's About Humanity 🌈 . Pride is about more than just identity; it's about humanity. . Nonprofits work every day to uplift and protect this truth. . During Pride Month, we honor the progress made and acknowledge the work still to be done. . Nonprofits are at the forefront of this journey, tirelessly advocating for the rights and dignity of the LGBTQ+ community. . They provide vital services, support, and education, ensuring that everyone can live authentically and safely. . These organizations are the backbone of the Pride movement, transforming challenges into opportunities for growth and acceptance. . They remind us that equality is a collective effort, and through their dedication, they inspire us all to be allies in the fight for justice. . As we celebrate this month, let's recognize and support the nonprofits making a tangible difference in the lives of so many. . Together, we can create a future where love and acceptance are not just ideals but realities for everyone. 🌟💪 #PrideMonth #EqualityForAll #SupportNonprofits #HumanityFirst

Equip yourself with the knowledge and tools to be a proactive ally. Get your hands on these must-read books and visit essential websites to deepen your understanding of LGBTQ+ issues. Show your support by following impactful organizations, donating to LGBTQ+ charities, and volunteering your time. Together, we can make a difference every day. #SupportLGBTQ+ #PrideMonth #AllyshipInAction #Resources #Knowledge

Pride Month is in full swing and there are few better ways to celebrate than to uplift the intersections of LGBTQ+ giving and the nonprofit work we do! To help us, this new infographic summarizes the 2024 LGBTQ+ Index Report by Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. This report dives into a decade's worth of data (2010-2021), highlighting how global events like COVID-19 and shifting support have impacted LGBTQ+ organizations. Discover key insights on funding disparities and challenges, and learn how nonprofits and philanthropists can help bridge the gap. 📊 🌈📚 Read the full report here: https://hubs.li/Q02C41bk0 #LGBTQ #Philanthropy #Nonprofits #Inclusion #Impact

This year-end, let's make a difference that resonates for a lifetime! Commit your donations to ensure LGBTQ+ youth have the unwavering support and resources they DESERVE to thrive in communities across Colorado. Your contribution can empower and uplift, creating a brighter future for these incredible individuals. Together, let's build a community where every youth feels seen, supported, and free to be their authentic selves. Click the link or go to envision-you.org to donate TODAY! https://bit.ly/47VBKWh . . . . #LGBTQ #lgbtq #mentalhealth #nonprofit #SupportLGBTQ+ #MentalHealthMatters #MakeADifference . [Image Description: A white background with a green border. Text at the top of the image in green and black says “LGBTQ+ Youth DESERVE:” A green paint smear is in the middle of the image with a comic text bubble, and a quote that says “To grow up embraced by their community, loved unconditionally, and without feeling ‘different’. -Envision:You community member.” The Colorado Gives Day logo is in the bottom right corner and the Envision:You logo is in the bottom left corner.] End Description.]

🌈 Excited to invite you to our upcoming webinar on December 4th 12pm PST/ 3PM EST 'Literary Oppression: The History of Queer Book Banning and How to Combat It.' Let's explore the crucial dialogue around preserving LGBTQ voices in literature. Join us! https://lnkd.in/g6x7Xp_N #queerliterature #webinar #zoommeetings #discussion #nonprofit #nonprofitleadership #linkedmentoring #gsalink

ONE WEEK TO GO!! This May 28 is LGBTQ Domestic Violence Awareness Day. 1 in 2 LGBTQ people will experience domestic or family violence in their lifetime, and 72% of LGBTQ people who experienced domestic or family violence did not report the abuse to anyone. Your allyship and support are now more important than ever. To get your team involved, go to https://lnkd.in/dr39RS_B or to help raise much needed funds, go to https://lnkd.in/dnHeGKPP

Some thoughts I have about #PrideMonth this year and how organizations can support the LGBTQ+ members of key audiences.