Charles and Jack Fund for LGBTQ+ Advancement

Program Focus: Supporting LGBTQ+ youth across Kentucky through grants to nonprofits providing care, connection, and community.

Award Details:

• Grant Amount: $20,000 per organization
• Number of Recipients: Six organizations selected annually (as of 2025)
• Total Annual Distribution: $120,000

Geographic Scope: Metro Louisville and across Kentucky

Target Population: LGBTQ+ youth ages 24 and under

Fund History and Legacy:

• Established to commemorate Charles Gruenberger and Jack Kersey
• Charles and Jack were LGBTQ+ rights advocates and trailblazers in Louisville
• Dedicated their lives to advocacy, including organizing community hotlines and fighting for visibility and equity
• Fund continues their vision of a world where queer youth are safe, affirmed, and empowered to thrive

Eligible Organizations:

• 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving LGBTQ+ youth (ages 24 and under)
• Organizations providing services in Metro Louisville and/or Kentucky
• Community-led selection process with advisory committee

Focus Areas:

• Safe and affirming spaces for LGBTQ+ youth
• Community connection and peer-led programs
• Life skills education and social advocacy
• Legal advocacy and education
• Health education and reproductive justice
• Gender-affirming care and health resources
• Summer camp experiences
• Housing, shelter, and support for homeless LGBTQ+ youth
• Pride celebration and community building

Award Announcement: Typically announced at Louisville Pride Festival (September)

Contact Information:

• Community Foundation of Louisville
• Phone: 502.585.4649
• Email: info@cflouisville.org
• Address: 325 W. Main Street, Suite 1110, Waterfront Plaza, West Tower, Louisville, KY 40202