In 2010, the Gill Foundation provided grants to 355 organizations engaged on a range of issues nationally, as well as 20 states and the District of Columbia. Recognizing the remarkable momentum for equality, our board approved an increase in grants of $2.5 million in 2010, to a total $11.8 million – despite our assets remaining flat. And our grantees played a key role in changing policies, as well as hearts and minds, to improve the lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people and their families. The six videos featured on the right highlight the diversity of that work.

In terms of scope, federal policy has the greatest impact on the lives of LGBT people. And the repeal of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell (DADT) may be the biggest story of 2010. In a video highlighting the work of the Palm Center, Executive Director Aaron Belkin tells the story behind that remarkable achievement, demonstrating the Gill Foundation’s long-standing commitment to federal policy change.

Change often begins, and moves more quickly, at the state and local level. That’s why we continue to prioritize funding for advocacy, public education, and litigation work in the states. The video featuring Equality Utah Foundation highlights how smart, sustained effort can expand protections for LGBT people, even in historically conservative areas.

In the videos featuring State Voices, the Colorado Civic Engagement Roundtable, CAUSA, and Basic Rights Oregon Education, you’ll learn how allied organizations are embracing the cause of equality in important and innovative ways. You’ll also see how LGBT organizations are beginning to walk the talk as committed members of the larger progressive movement.

And in the videos featuring Chuck Williams and the Williams Institute, the Movement Advancement Project, and Transgender Law Center, you’ll learn about how the Gill Foundation promotes collaboration among funders, as well as organizations, to speed the pace of change for LGBT people.