How much funding does Nic Pagano LGBTQIA+ Scholarship Fund provide?

Funding amounts vary. Check the grant details for specifics.

When is the deadline for Nic Pagano LGBTQIA+ Scholarship Fund?

This grant has a rolling deadline or the deadline has not been announced.

Nic Pagano LGBTQIA+ Scholarship Fund

THE RELEASE RECOVERY FOUNDATION INC

Foundation Annual Grants for LGBTQ Nonprofits Addiction & Substance Abuse Grants Grants for Mental Health

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Funding Amount

Varies

Deadline

Rolling / Open

Grant Type

foundation

Overview

Nic Pagano LGBTQIA+ Scholarship Fund

Overview: Financial assistance program for families and individuals in the LGBTQIA+ community in need of support after accepting treatment for substance use disorder.

Background: Created in fall 2021 in honor of Nic Pagano, who died from accidental fentanyl poisoning on July 2, 2021. Nic was interested in social work and advocated for marginalized communities, particularly the transgender community. His parents, Karen Marks and Rich Pagano, helped establish this fund.

Geographic Scope: United States (partnerships with Release Foundation in New York and Caron Treatment Center in Pennsylvania)

Focus Areas:

Substance use disorder treatment access

LGBTQIA+ community support

Addressing stigma, heterosexism, internalized homophobia, and discrimination

Trauma-informed care

Eligibility:

Members of LGBTQIA+ community

Individuals/families in need of financial help

Those who have accepted and committed to treatment for substance use disorder

Those engaged in comprehensive education in sober tools

Track Record: Over 30 financial scholarships awarded since inception in fall 2021

Contact/Administration: Based at Caron Treatment Center in partnership with Release Foundation (NY)

Supporting Events: Annual Nic Pagano Concert (held January 22, 2026 - 5th Annual) featuring tribute to Elton John with proceeds benefiting the scholarship fund