The Ricky Martin Memorial Fund

Geographic Scope: Eastern Connecticut (42 towns)

Focus Areas: LGBTQ+ community support; youth services

Established by Stephen Taylor to honor his late husband, Ricky Martin, who passed away from cancer in 2022 after 30 years together.

What They Fund: Grants support organizations serving:

• LGBTQ+ community members across Eastern Connecticut's 42 towns
• Youth programs

About Ricky Martin: Ricky Martin was known for:

• Volunteering extensively for LGBTQ+ causes
• Co-organizing fundraising events (drag shows, comedy nights) to benefit LGBT organizations
• Donating baked goods to nonprofit fundraisers
• Serving on the Alliance for Living's board of directors
• Creating a safe, welcoming space at Frank's Place (a New London gay bar) where he worked as a bartender

First Grant: The Fund's first grant was awarded to the Alliance for Living in New London, an HIV/AIDS service organization and resource center. The organization renamed its building in Ricky Martin's honor in recognition of his remarkable dedication and service.