The San Diego Human Dignity Foundation announced this week the recipients of 12 grants that total more than $36,000.

The foundation, which will host a ceremony Tuesday Dec. 4 from 2-4 p.m. at the Diversionary Theatre, received 21 applications for grants, requesting more than $180,000. According to the foundation, the notable increase in applicants shows that more nonprofits are seeking support for GLBT-related issues.

The grants will be awarded to: Auntie Helen’s Fluff ‘n’ Fold, Being Alive, Diversionary Theatre Productions, ElderHelp of San Diego, Gay Men’s Chorus of San Diego, Lambda Archives, Mama’s Kitchen, San Diego LGBT Community Center, San Diego Youth & Community Services, Special Delivery San Diego, Sun & Moon Vision Productions, and Vista Community Clinic.

The grant recipients reflect the foundation’s funding priorities in the SDHDF’s GLBT needs assessment, which includes civil rights advocacy and education, improving access to health services (including HIV/AIDS) and addressing the needs of San Diego’s GLBT youth, seniors and families.

This year marks the first year the foundation is awarding funds from its general endowment, a financial reserve that offers the GLBT community a secure and perpetual source of funding.

The SDHDF is the region’s only foundation focusing its efforts exclusively on agencies serving the GLBT community. Since it launched in 1996, the foundation has distributed nearly $800,000 to 45 local nonprofit organizations, and had added 23 donor-advised funds to its roster.

“It is because of responsible philanthropy that we are able to improve the quality of life for our LGBT community with funds from SDHDF’s general endowment,” said Tony Freeman, executive director for the SDHDF. “There are many excellent nonprofits that provide programs and services for our LGBT community, and by cultivating a culture of generosity, we will continue to support and grow these resources for the times we need them most.”

The recipients will receive the grant funds at a ceremony at the Diversionary Theatre located at 4545 Park. Blvd, on Dec. 4 from 2-4 p.m. For more information on the San Diego Human Dignity Foundation, visit www.mylgbtfoundation.org.

Staff report