Gamma Mu Foundation

The Gamma Mu Foundation makes a positive difference in the lives of LGBTQ+ people, primarily in rural and underserved communities across the United States. Founded in 1988 by members of the Gamma Mu Social Fraternity, the foundation is a community of donors and volunteers who pool their gifts to fund work where local resources are scarce.

Its grants program supports U.S. nonprofits in three areas: community support services for underserved LGBTQ+ populations such as young people, seniors and those facing bullying; public education and research; and HIV and health programs, including aging and mental health. The grant cycle opens each winter, starting with a letter of intent, and the foundation hosts informational webinars to help applicants prepare.

The scholarship program helps gay men and LGBTQ+ students pay for full-time study, from vocational training and community college to graduate and professional school. Awards include Named Scholarships, and applications are accepted each March. Categories cover first-year, undergraduate and graduate students, with dedicated scholarships open to transgender, queer and gender-nonconforming students.

Supporters gather at Celebration East in Fort Lauderdale and Celebration West in California, weekend fundraisers that power the grants and scholarships. Gifts of any size are welcome, and donors who reach a cumulative giving threshold become Cliff Pettit Fellows with a voice in the foundation's direction. Legacy and matching gifts are also welcome.