The Arkansas River Valley LGBTQ+ Fund has awarded $10,000 in grants to three local organizations working to build belonging, visibility, and equity for LGBTQ+ people in Chaffee County and the surrounding region. Established at the Chaffee County Community Foundation, the fund pools gifts from community members and local businesses to strengthen programs that ensure LGBTQ+ residents and visitors can thrive as their authentic selves.
This year’s grants support:
● BV Pride Coalition ($6,000): Launching Pride of Lions, a community-led GSA for LGBTQIA+ teens ages 13–18, and expanding events, mentorship, and partnerships that foster inclusive spaces in Buena Vista.
● GARNA ($1,900): Partnering with Ramps & Alleys Clubhouse to bring the Gear Library into an affirming youth space and co-lead monthly nature-based programs that reduce barriers to outdoor experiences for LGBTQ+ youth.
● PFLAG BV Chapter ($1,500): Sending representatives to the National PFLAG “Learning with Love” Conference in Chicago to gain best practices for serving rural LGBTQ+ communities, veterans, families, and youth.
“These grants represent the generosity of many local supporters who care deeply about making our region safer, more inclusive, and more connected,” said John McGowan, Steering Committee Chair. “Now more than ever these gifts are immensely meaningful. The Arkansas River Valley LGBTQ+ Fund is already helping spark lasting change through the leadership of our local nonprofits and grass roots efforts. Every gift matters.”
Grant reviews were conducted by members of the fund’s steering committee, ensuring that awards reflect both community priorities and the fund’s mission. As part of CCCF’s Collective Impact Funds, the Arkansas River Valley LGBTQ+ Fund channels local philanthropy toward meaningful impact while supporting nonprofits in ways that extend beyond grantmaking.
To learn more about the Arkansas River Valley LGBTQ+ Fund or to contribute, visit https://www.chaffeecommunity.org/arvlgbtq.
About Chaffee County Community Foundation Founded in 2018, Chaffee County Community Foundation is a public, nonprofit organization established to promote and facilitate philanthropy in Chaffee County, created by and for the people in that area. Since 2018, CCCF has actively supported nonprofit organizations for the betterment of Chaffee County and the local communities. To learn more, visit www.chaffeecommunity.org.
