2025 Big Check Celebration (Press Release)

Grass Roots Gay Rights Foundation grants $318,000 to beneficiary organizations in 2025, totalling more than $4.6 million since 1989

SAN FRANCISCO, CA. June 1, 2025 — The Grass Roots Gay Rights Foundation is excited to announce that our extremely successful season of fundraising events allowed us to grant $318,000 to local and national LGBTQ nonprofits and nine scholarship awardees.

In 2025, the Foundation is proud to support 13 local LGBTQ nonprofits with grant funding. Daniel Blair, Events Chair for 2025, commented, “As the lights fade on this season of REAL BAD, I’m in awe of what we created. Every event was more than a moment - it was a heartbeat of community, creativity and care. We didn’t just build experience; we build connection, purpose and joy that will outlast the night. To everyone who gave their time, energy and heart - thank you. This season reminded me that when we come together for good, we make magic that truly lasts.”

With this year’s remarkable achievements, the Grass Roots Gay Rights Foundation has now contributed over $4.6 million to the community since its founding in 1989. The 2024 grants were awarded to the following organizations:

Books Not Bans, Lyric Center for LGBTQ+ Youth, Maitri, National AIDS Memorial, Oasis Legal Services, Openhouse SF, Pepper Diet Academy, Planned Parenthood, Queer Life Space, SFLGBT Center, Shanti Project, TACT (Trans Advocacy & Care Team), The Trevor Project, UCSF Alliance Health Project.

Additionally, the Foundation awarded nine We Rise LGBTQ Scholarships, totaling $23,500. This scholarship program is rooted in the belief that supporting individuals in their educational and vocational pursuits uplifts the entire community. These grants help recipients pursue higher education or vocational training, empowering them to launch their careers and transform their futures.

The Grass Roots Gay Rights Foundation is an all-volunteer, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Since 1989, GRGRF has raised and donated more than $4.6 million to support local and national nonprofits.