Spring 2021
For the third consecutive year, the fund awarded impact grants to programs that improve the health and safety of Greater Akron's LGBTQ+ community. Among this year's recipients is Margie's Hope, which received $10,000 to provide support groups and resources to transgender people and their families in Greater Akron.
A new impact grant from GCEF is fueling Greater Akron's first LGBTQ+ community needs assessment. The results of this groundbreaking study will inform the strategies of local funders and service providers as they allocate resources to strengthen the health and well-being of the LGBTQ+ community.
Through April 30, the GCEF Scholarship Fund is accepting applications from LGBTQ+ and allied students pursuing a postsecondary degree. Applicants must live or study in Medina, Portage, Stark, Summit or Wayne counties. Priority is given to students who have made a positive difference in the LGBTQ+ community. 
Each year, the Gay Community Endowment Fund recognizes an individual, business or organization that has actively supported the LGBTQ+ community with its Paul Daum Award. In 2020, the fund presented this esteemed award to Jim King and Rafael Oletta, owners of Angel Falls Coffee Company.
Save the date for our 20th annual Sugar Plum Tour of Holiday Homes
Akron's beloved holiday tradition is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, and you won't want to miss the incredible festivities we have planned. Mark your calendar for the weekend of Dec. 4 and 5, and stay tuned for more details about tickets and sponsorship packages. We can't wait to celebrate with you!
Interested in sponsoring the tour?
Contact Deb Hoffman at dhoffman@akroncf.org or 330-436-5614.
Giving Opportunities
In December, Congress passed new COVID-19 relief legislation that extends many of the tax provisions included in the CARES Act. This legislation temporarily extends the universal charitable deduction for taxpayers who do not itemize, allowing you to deduct up to $300 – or $600 for married couples – for cash contributions to qualifying public charities like the Gay Community Endowment Fund.
To celebrate our 20th anniversary in 2021, the Gay Community Endowment Fund has launched the Circle of Inclusion. Members of this new giving campaign receive special recognition for their role in growing GCEF's endowment. The circle welcomes gifts and pledges of $1,000 or more, and all donations support the fund's mission of advancing a lived equality for LGBTQ+ people in Greater Akron.
Thank you to the generous individuals, families and organizations who contributed to the Gay Community Endowment Fund from Nov. 1, 2020, to Feb. 28, 2021. Your gifts will positively impact LGBTQ+ people in our community for many years to come.