The Gay & Lesbian Fund’s announcement of the closing of operations in Colorado Springs has shaken local nonprofits and foundations. Since their opening in 1996, the Gay & Lesbian Fund has become a highly respected change agent in this community.
I can’t help but reflect back on their arrival in Colorado Springs fifteen years ago; nonprofit leaders were skeptical at best. At the time, CASA’s board was reticent and questioning and it took us a number of years before we were comfortable enough to write a grant to the Gay & Lesbian Fund. But once engaged with the amazing people who work at G&L, we learned, we changed, and we benefited is many ways:
• First and foremost our social consciousness shifted. G&L helped us to stretch our thinking and become more inclusive in our work with clients.
• We received valuable training around fund development and benefitted from one-on-one support and guidance.
• We were taught how to leverage G&L funding to seek new donors and increased gifts.
• G&L’s voice led to innovations in creative capacity building.
• Most importantly, they brought heart and compassion to this community for all people, moving many of us from a place of skepticism about gay, lesbian, transgendered folks to one of acceptance and inclusion.
G&L came here against huge odds and barriers and leave Colorado Springs after making great strides in the advancement of equality and civility.
We celebrate you and will miss your presence in our community.
Trudy Strewler Hodges
Executive Director, CASA of the Pikes Peak Region
