Supporting GiveOUT Day: Bridging Philanthropic Gaps for LGBTQIA Communities.

Supporting GiveOUT Day: Bridging Philanthropic Gaps for LGBTQIA Communities.

One of the significant inequities in philanthropy is the underfunding of LGBTQIA charities. This isn’t limited to LGBTQIA+ specific inclusion, gaps exist in reaching First Nations organsiations and other under-served groups. 

To play my part and help bridge the gap, I’m proud to support Give OUT Day, a vital initiative that raises funds to support organizations dedicated to uplifting our diverse communities.

Thursday 17th October, 2024 is GiveOUT Day, Australia’s national day of giving to LGBTQIA+ charities, not-for-profits and community projects. On GiveOUT Day, donations to participating organisations are matched by GiveOUT.

GiveOUT Day is part of a broader program of work underway by GiveOUT, an LGBTQIA+ led organisation focused on increasing philanthropic dollars to rainbow communities.

The Need for Focused Support

Despite progress in many areas, LGBTQIA organizations often struggle to secure the resources they need to thrive. Many face systemic barriers and limited access to funding, which can hinder their ability to provide essential services. Give OUT Day directly addresses this challenge by mobilizing individuals and communities to contribute, ensuring that critical programs can continue their impactful work.

LGBTQIA+ organisations are the first responders for the community, working tirelessly to increase access to services, promote equal rights, and provide much-needed relief and resources. But almost half the LGBTQIA+ organisations in Australia operated on less than $10,000 in 2021.

Underfunding limits the sector's ability to enact change. According to the “Where are the Rainbow Resources? Report:

  • The lack of funding for the LGBTQIA+ community sector means that many organisations are understaffed and depend on volunteers
  • More than half of respondents said they currently have no paid staff
  • 41% of the organisations who provide services to clients said that they could only ‘Rarely’ or ‘Sometimes’ meet demand for their services
  • Almost three-quarters of LGBTQIA+ organisations providing services to clients experienced an increase in demand over the past year, yet 33% said they ceased delivering a service or program due to lack of funding

GiveOUT is working to change that.

A Collective Effort for Change

GiveOUT Day is not just about fundraising; it’s a movement that fosters solidarity and collaboration. By participating, we unite our voices and resources to support those who are often overlooked in traditional philanthropic circles. 

Each donation, no matter the size, contributes to a larger narrative of empowerment and recognition for LGBTQIA individuals and communities. Since their establishment in 2016, their  initiatives have distributed over $2 million to more than 150 LGBTQIA+ organisations.

11% of Australians identify as LGBTQIA+, but due to ongoing stigma and discrimination, our communities are far from equal. Our sector is uniquely underfunded and unable to meet the demand for services, with only 5 cents in every 100 philanthropic dollars flowing to LGBTQIA+ communities.

Despite the high demand for services and proven effectiveness of LGBTQIA+ led services, the LGBTQIA+ community sector is young and small: Only 0.2% of all registered charities list LGBTQIA+ people as the main beneficiary group that they serve.

Addressing Philanthropic Inequity

Philanthropic inequity is a pressing issue that demands our attention. 

Many LGBTQIA charities operate on limited budgets, yet they provide invaluable services in areas such as mental health, housing, and advocacy. For instance, a 2020 report from the Human Rights Campaign noted that only 15% of LGBTQIA organizations are able to meet the demand for services. 

By prioritizing our giving during initiatives like GiveOUT Day, we can help level the playing field and ensure these organizations receive the funding they need to thrive.

How You Can Get Involved

Supporting Give OUT Day is simple and impactful. Here are a few ways you can contribute:

1. Make a Donation: Choose an LGBTQIA charity that resonates with you and make a financial contribution. Stuck for ideas? Donate to my campaign Transgender Victoria here: Gemma Saunders - GiveOUT Day 2024 

2. Spread the Word: Share information about Give OUT Day on your social media platforms to raise awareness and encourage others to participate.

3. Volunteer: Offer your time or skills to local LGBTQIA organizations that may benefit from additional support.

4. Advocate for Inclusion: Use your voice to promote discussions around equity in philanthropy within your networks and workplaces.

In a world where equity and inclusion are paramount, supporting initiatives like Give OUT Day is essential. Together, we can help bridge the gaps in philanthropic support for LGBTQIA communities and create a more equitable landscape for all. I invite you to join me in making a difference—because every contribution counts, and every voice matters.

Let’s join together, show up and bridge the gap in funding.

Leonard Curmi

Program Manager at GiveOUT Australia | OFA 30 Under 30 | Advanced Global Challenges (Honours)

1mo

A great read Gemma Saunders 🌈 GAICD, thank you for supporting GiveOUT Day 💗

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