Out In Appalachia was created to support the many queer and trans-led organizations in Central Appalachia that operate in areas where philanthropy has a smaller footprint. These groups are often deeply rooted in rural communities and focused on neighbors that mainstream funding may not yet reach. We were established specifically to bridge that gap and ensure these vital local efforts have the resources they need to grow.

Each grantee received $7,000 in flexible, unrestricted funding to support the vital work they are already doing. Rather than asking organizations to shift their focus, we are showing up to champion the pride celebrations, literary spaces, and healing traditions they have already built. From here, we look forward to growing our partnership through deeper network support and continued investment in their vision.

For many 2SLGBTQ+ people in rural Appalachia, seeing an organization that reflects their identity, in their own county, their own town, can be life-changing. The grantees in Out in Appalachia are doing the visible, community-anchored work that makes that possible.