The Orcas LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender) Fund announces that their 2011 grants cycle is underway. The fund currently has over $25,000 available for grants that are compatible with the fund’s mission, which is to grant funds to nonprofit organizations with ties to Orcas Island for programs that encourage civil discourse, and broaden awareness and acceptance of LGBT people.

The Orcas LGBT Fund is a donor-advised fund held at the Orcas Island Community Foundation and supported by both gay and straight friends of Orcas Island. Many of the dozens of donors are active members of the Orcas LGBT community. Other donors are progressive islanders who believe in the mission and goals of the LGBT Fund. In its first year, 2010, the fund awarded six grants, totaling over $8,000.

On Tuesday, March 29, the Orcas LGBT Fund hosted a well-attended gathering to answer questions for representatives of nonprofit organizations, and discuss ideas for grant proposals that meet the mission of the fund. Among the ideas that emerged was the proposal to use a “Letter of Intent” as the initial stage to apply for a grant. The LGBT Fund members heartily adopted this proposal and now invite nonprofit organizations to submit a letter of intent to briefly describe proposed projects that are in line with the fund mission.

For more information about the Orcas LGBT Fund and the letter of intent process,  visit the website at orcaslgbtfund.org. All letters are due by April 27, 2011.