About The Cherry Fund
Founded in 1996, The Cherry Fund has expanded its mission over the years to encompass support of physical and mental wellness initiatives for the Washington, D.C. area’s LGBTQ community.
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Rafael LeaoOur Mission
The Cherry Fund is a D.C.-based, volunteer-led 501(c)(3) organization that raises funds to directly support non-profit organizations that deliver mental and physical health interventions to the Washington, D.C. area’s LGBTQ community. Our efforts empower organizations to provide essential services and wellbeing solutions for individuals in need.
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Vonecia CarswellOur Vision
We envision a world in which every member of our dynamic LGBTQ community has access to comprehensive mental and physical health services that affirm their identity and promote their wellbeing. Toward this end, we support organizations that value inclusivity, equity and care in the solutions that they develop and champion.
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Sneha Sivarajan
Supporting Community, Saving Lives
A Legacy of Giving and Empowerment
The Cherry Fund was founded in 1996 in Washington, D.C., as an event-focused organization that gathered people together in the spirit of joy to support local HIV/AIDS and mental health research and treatment efforts. In recent years, we have evolved into a vital charity that plays a pivotal role in raising funds that empower the delivery of life-saving essential services and uplifting the LGBTQ community throughout D.C. and beyond.
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Annie Spratt
Advancing Health and Advocacy
Nearly Three Decades of Impact: Grants, Advocacy, and Community Partnership
Over our nearly 30-year history, we have awarded grants and in-kind contributions exceeding $1.3 million to deserving organizations that create and deliver mental and physical health solutions to people in need. In addition to our work in grant-making, our wholly volunteer-based team: 1) coordinates workshops and panels to raise awareness of remedies to systemic barriers to care and health disparities; 2) works with local and national organizations to advocate in support of initiatives that enhance access to care for members of our community; and 3) partners with community organizations that field educational sessions in the areas of mental and physical health.
You can support our important work by setting up a one-time or regular donation.
Our work is driven by these core values.
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Collaborative partnership
We work with organizations, volunteers, and the community to achieve a shared vision of improved health outcomes and wellbeing for LGBTQ individuals.
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Empathy
We foster a supportive environment where the unique needs of the LGBTQ community are understood, respected and addressed with care.
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Inclusivity
We develop circumstances through which all LGBTQ individuals can gain access to vital mental and physical health services, regardless of race, gender expression or other facets of identity.
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Community empowerment
We prioritize the strength of collective action, empowering our partners and individuals who work tirelessly to support and uplift the LGBTQ community.
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Integrity
We operate with transparency, accountability, and ethical practices, ensuring that the funds we raise are used effectively to make a meaningful impact.
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Justice
We advocate for the rights, health, and wellbeing of LGBTQ+ individuals, striving for systemic change that creates equitable access to care for all.
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Join Us in Making a Difference
Your support helps fund life-saving research, treatment, and housing for the LGBTQ community. Together, we can create a brighter future.