In an extraordinary development for the LGBTQ community in Long Beach, MacKenzie Scott’s Yield Giving has announced The LGBTQ Center Long Beach as one of the recipients of its prestigious Yield Giving Open Call award.
The Center, renowned as the largest LGBTQ community-based organization in the greater Long Beach area, is set to receive a groundbreaking grant of $2 million aimed at addressing the pressing needs of LGBTQ individuals and communities.
The LGBTQ Center Long Beach, commonly known as ‘The Center,’ has been recognized for its efforts in advancing equity for LGBTQ individuals through culturally responsive advocacy, education, programs, and services.
With a vision of fostering fully affirming communities where LGBTQ people thrive in health, wellness, safety, and prosperity, The Center has supported thousands in the greater Long Beach area.
Each year, The Center assists over 10,000 individuals, offering a comprehensive range of programs designed to tackle the health, mental health, social, and community needs of LGBTQ people.
They host 18 social and support groups, sponsor cultural and social activities, including the renowned Long Beach QFilm Festival, and serve as a vital hub for LGBTQ individuals seeking connection and support.
Ellie Perez, Interim Executive Director of The LGBTQ Center Long Beach, stated, “We are incredibly grateful and honored to be one of the awardees of the Yield Giving Open Call. This generous gift, which is the single largest gift in our organization’s history, will enable us to continue our mission of advancing equity for LGBTQ people.”
The Yield Giving Open Call, launched by Yield Giving in March 2023, aimed to support community-led organizations dedicated to enhancing the well-being of individuals and families through foundational resources.
The response was overwhelming, with 6,353 applications received. Initially planning 250 awards of $1 million each, Yield Giving later expanded the awardee pool and increased the award amount in recognition of the outstanding work demonstrated by the organizations.
The LGBTQ Center Long Beach, established in 1977 as a living room discussion group, has been a stalwart supporter of the LGBTQ community for over four decades. From operating one of the first HIV testing sites in Southern California to supporting significant cultural events such as Long Beach Pride and AIDS Walk, The Center has continuously demonstrated its commitment to serving the community.
Yield Giving, founded by MacKenzie Scott, aims to share a financial fortune created through the collective efforts of many. Named after a belief in adding value by relinquishing control, Yield Giving has disbursed over $16.5 billion to over 1,900 nonprofit teams to date.
For more information on the Yield Giving Open Call and other initiatives, visit www.leverforchange.org. To learn more about The LGBTQ Center Long Beach, visit www.centerlb.org, and for information on Yield Giving, visit www.yieldgiving.com.
