9 Best Charities for LGBTQ+ Rights (Complete 2024 List)
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Everyone should be able to express themselves without discrimination. However, many people face backlash because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. And with so many charities advocating for LGBTQ+ equality, we had to ask: What are the best charities for LGBTQ+ rights?
The best charities for LGBTQ+ rights are the Trevor Project, PFLAG, and the American Civil Liberties Union. These charities support the LGBTQ+ community by defending their social and legal rights. They also promote LGBTQ+ equality through public campaigns, advocacy programs, and activism.
Whether you want to volunteer with an LGBTQ+ organization, raise awareness on an issue, or participate in your local Pride event, there is a charity for you. Keep reading to learn more about what the best charities for LGBTQ+ rights are all about, how they work, and what your best way would be to make a contribution.
Here’s What All the Best Charities for LGBTQ+ Rights Have in Common
The charities on this list were chosen based on their dedication to LGBTQ+ rights, their impact on achieving LGBTQ+ equality, and their transparency ratings.
These charities promote LGBTQ+ rights through comprehensive advocacy work, and public awareness campaigns that promote social change.
These charities encourage more inclusion by working to eliminate discrimination against LGBTQ+ people. They also provide support and resources to vulnerable individuals and communities, and aim to make the world a safer place for all people.
Yet, they all share the same goal of defending LGBTQ+ rights.
These Are the 9 Best Charities for LGBTQ+ Rights in 2024
Below are our favorite charities for LGBTQ+ rights (you can click on their link to directly jump to their section in this article):
Best Charities For LGBTQ+ Rights
(At the end of this article we’ll also share our six-step approach on how you can select the best charity to support.)
The Trevor Project: Providing Crisis Intervention for LGBTQ+ Youth
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Their transparency & ratings:
The Trevor Project has an outstanding 4-star rating and an Accountability and Transparency score of 100 out of 100, both from Charity Navigator. The organization also has a Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar – the highest rank possible.
“To end suicide among lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer – and questioning young people.”
The Trevor Project
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What they do:
The Trevor Project serves as an international crisis intervention and suicide prevention lifeline for LGBTQ+ youth. The organization trains volunteers to operate its crisis lifelines and respond to at-risk youth needing immediate assistance. The organization also performs groundbreaking research on the struggles of LGBTQ+ youth, and advocates for policy reforms to protect LGBTQ+ communities.
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What they’ve achieved:
Since its inception, the Trevor Project has reached more than 300,000 people in over 100 countries with its TrevorSpace platform, a social media platform for LGBTQ+ youth to connect and communicate. For example, in 2020, the organization reached over 150,000 people through its crisis lifelines and services. In the same year, the Trevor Project also trained more than 780 volunteers to provide assistance to the LGBTQ+ youth contacting the crisis hotlines.
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Ways to contribute:
You can contribute to the Trevor Project by donating directly through the organization’s website. You can also support the organization by volunteering to help LGBTQ+ youth during times of crisis. In conjunction, the Trevor Project has a great online shop, where you can buy branded gear from its partners to show your support for the wellbeing of LGBTQ+ youth.
PFLAG: Uplifting LGBTQ+ Communities and Their Families
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Their transparency & ratings:
PFLAG has an incredible Accountability and Transparency score of 100 out of 100 from Charity Navigator. The organization also has a Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar. Similarly, PFLAG’s dedication to diversity and inclusion is showcased internally, as nearly 56% of its staff identify as gay, lesbian, or bisexual.
“To educate ourselves and our communities to speak up as advocates until all hearts and minds respect, value and affirm LGBTQ people.”
PFLAG
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What they do:
PFLAG protects LGBTQ+ rights through advocacy work and community-building programs. The organization aids the friends and families of LGBTQ+ people with supportive connections and resources through its localized chapters. It also provides resources and assistance to LGBTQ+ youth, enabling them to reach their fullest potential.
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What they’ve achieved:
Since its founding, PFLAG has acquired more than 250,000 members and supporters across over 400 chapters in the US. Internationally, the organization has affiliates in more than 10 countries, including Jamaica, Vietnam, and Spain. PFLAG also offers thousands of dollars worth of academic scholarships to LGBTQ+ youth and allies that participate in their communities and raise awareness for LGBTQ+ rights. Its scholarship program distributes financial aid and resources to students in more than 15 U.S. states.
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Ways to contribute:
You can contribute to PFLAG by donating through the organization’s website.
American Civil Liberties Union: Defending the Civil Liberties of the LGBTQ+ Community
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Their transparency & ratings:
ACLU has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator, and has an impressive Accountability and Transparency score of 96 out of 100, also from Charity Navigator. The organization holds a Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar, demonstrating its commitment to LGBTQ+ rights.
“To ensure that lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, & queer people belong everywhere and can live openly and authentically.”
American Civil Liberties Union
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What they do:
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) defends LGBTQ+ rights through strategic litigation and public awareness campaigns. The organization advocates for equality by highlighting injustices against the LGBTQ+ community, and by challenging discriminatory legislation that hinders people from expressing themselves openly and fairly.
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What they’ve achieved:
Since its founding, the ACLU has garnered more than 1.7 million active members and supporters, and over 500 staff attorneys. Its widespread reach and legal influence enabled the organization to serve as counsel in 7 LGBTQ+ rights cases that have appeared before the Supreme Court. For example, in 2020, the organization filed another 6 legal actions calling for LGBTQ+ equality.
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Ways to contribute:
You can contribute to the American Civil Liberties Union by donating directly through their website. You can also give over the phone, or sign up for a monthly membership to make regular donations.
True Colors United: Protecting LGBTQ+ Rights By Reducing Homelessness
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Their transparency & ratings:
True Colors United holds an overall score of 94 out of 100 from Charity Navigator. The organization also has a Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar. For example, in 2019, the organization spent approximately 89% of its income on its advocacy programs and services.
“To ensure LGBTQ youth experiencing homelessness have access to the inclusive and affirming services they need.”
True Colors United
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What they do:
True Colors United works to eradicate homelessness among LGBTQ+ youth through advocacy campaigns. The organization also provides educational training to promote diversity, inclusion, and raise awareness on the issues LGBTQ+ youth face, especially homelessness and isolation.
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What they’ve achieved:
Since its inception, True Colors United has reached more than 2,239 people with its educational training programs. The organization has also implemented community action plans to decrease LGBTQ+ youth homelessness in 4 US states, including Texas, Tennessee, and Florida. For example, in 2019, the organization supported LGBTQ+ cultural inclusivity workshops that reached nearly 300 people.
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Ways to contribute:
You can contribute to True Colors United by donating directly through the charity’s website.
OutRight Action International: Advocating for Global LGBTQ+ Rights
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Their transparency & ratings:
OutRight Action International holds an Accountability and Transparency score of 97 out of 100 from Charity Navigator. The organization also has a Silver Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.
“Ensuring human rights for LGBTIQ people everywhere.”
OutRight Action International
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What they do:
OutRight Action International works worldwide to promote LGBTQ+ rights and equality through advocacy campaigns and legal support. The organization challenges discriminatory legislation on local and national levels, and assists grassroots organizations in serving as LGBTQ+ activists in their communities.
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What they’ve achieved:
Since its founding, OutRight Action International has spearheaded numerous LGBTQ+ rights and equality initiatives at an international level. For example, in 2008, the organization founded the U.N. LGBTI Core Group, a cohort of 33 member states dedicated to promoting LGBTQ+ equality. The organization has also helped establish more than 12 LGBTQ+ advocacy organizations across its target countries, including Iraq and Jamaica. In 2020, OutRight Action International brought together more than 1600 people from over 100 countries to discuss LGBTQ+ rights and equality.
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Ways to contribute:
You can contribute to OutRight Action International by donating directly through the organization’s website. You can also show your support by signing up for its newsletter.
Lambda Legal: Upholding Legal Protections for the LGBTQ+ Community
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Their transparency & ratings:
Lambda Legal currently maintains an Accountability and Transparency score of 97 out of 100 from Charity Navigator. It also holds a Silver Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.
“To achieve full recognition of the civil rights of lesbians, gay men, bisexuals, transgender people and everyone living with HIV.”
Lambda Legal
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What they do:
Lambda Legal fights for the civil rights of LGBTQ+ people by providing legal representation, research, and support to the community. The organization also conducts advocacy programs to raise awareness on the discriminatory treatment of the LGBTQ+ community, and those living with HIV.
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What they’ve achieved:
Since its founding, Lambda Legal has expanded across the U.S. with 6 offices in regional cities. The organization has won 9 landmark cases to protect the rights of the LGBTQ+ community, and has filed more than 46 federal lawsuits against the US government’s discriminatory policies towards LGBTQ+ people and people living with HIV. For example, in 2020, Lambda Legal challenged more than 5 discriminatory laws and policies that unfairly targeted LGBTQ+ people or those living with HIV.
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Ways to contribute:
You can contribute to Lambda Legal by donating directly through the organization’s website. You can also show your support by volunteering with the organization, attending one of its many events, or by participating in one of its many advocacy campaigns.
GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders (GLAD): Legal Advocates for LGBTQ+ Rights
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Their transparency & ratings:
GLAD has an impressive 4-star rating and an Accountability and Transparency score of 97 out of 100 from Charity Navigator. The organization also has a Gold Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.
“To create a just society free of discrimination based on gender identity and expression, HIV status, and sexual orientation.”
GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders (GLAD)
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What they do:
GLAD provides legal presentation and defense services to LGBTQ+ and HIV-positive people that are wrongfully targeted or discriminated against because of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or HIV status. The organization also challenges harmful legislation, and supports the LGBTQ+ community through legal advocacy.
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What they’ve achieved:
Since its founding, GLAD has expanded to provide legal assistance and representation to LGBTQ+ people in 6 U.S. states, and has filed more than 9 federal cases defending LGBTQ+ rights. For example, in 2021, the organization won 3 cases, including one that would expand access to health care for HIV-positive people.
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Ways to contribute:
You can contribute to GLAD by donating directly through their website. You can also sign up as a volunteer to support the GLAD Answers team.
Human Rights Campaign: Safeguarding LGBTQ+ Rights and Equality
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Their transparency & ratings:
The Human Rights Campaign has an impressive Accountability and Transparency score of 93 out of 100 from Charity Navigator. The organization also has a Financial score of 82 out of 100, also from Charity Navigator.
“To end discrimination against LGBTQ+ people and realize a world that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all.”
Human Rights Campaign
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What they do:
The Human Rights Campaign tackles all forms of discrimination against LGBTQ+ people through advocacy, education, and activism programs. The organization promotes LGBTQ+ rights on national and international levels, and publicly challenges harmful laws and practices that hinder equal rights for LGBTQ+ people.
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What they’ve achieved:
Since its founding, the Human Rights Campaign has amassed more than 3 million members and supporters to fight for LGBTQ+ rights. For example, in 2018, the organization assisted more than 150 LGBTQ+ politicians during election periods. In the same year, the Human Rights Campaign registered more than 32,000 eligible voters across all US states, which helped increase the number of LGBTQ+ and allies voters to over 7 million.
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Ways to contribute:
You can contribute to the Human Rights Campaign by donating directly through the organization’s website. You can also take action by volunteering with the charity, or signing up to a phone bank.
It Gets Better Project: Empowering the LGBTQ+ Community Through Storytelling
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Their transparency & ratings:
The It Gets Better Project has a Gold Seal of Transparency from GuideStar. For example, in 2019, the organization spent nearly 86% of its income on its LGBTQ+ empowerment programs and services.
“To uplift, empower, and connect lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) youth around the globe.”
It Gets Better Project
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What they do:
The It Gets Better Project promotes the rights of LGBTQ+ people through advocacy and digital awareness-raising campaigns. The organization uses social media tools to share the stories of LGBTQ+ people, while also encouraging community support. It also offers educational training and assistance to grassroots organizations advocating for LGBTQ+ rights.
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What they’ve achieved:
Since its founding, the It Gets Better Project has reached over 1 million youth across more than 20 countries, including the US, Mexico, and India. For example, in 2019, the organization engaged more than 3,000 students worldwide in its educational programming. In the same year, the It Gets Better Project provided training to 750 educators on how they can uplift LGBTQ+ people and share LGBTQ+ stories for greater inclusiveness.
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Ways to contribute:
You can contribute to the It Gets Better Project by donating directly through the organization’s website. You can also show your support by purchasing some branded gear from the organization’s online shop. All proceeds go towards helping LGBTQ+ youth.
How Can You Select the Best Charities to Support?
The charities on the list are, we deem, the best charities for LGBTQ+ rights. However, you may have a particular charity you want to support. Let’s look at what you can do to ensure your contribution has the most significant impact.
- Check out the charity website. Charities that are worthy of your donations are transparent in their mission and their figures. Familiarise yourself with their history, mission, and values. Their website usually is the best place to start.
- Identify the charity’s mission. Without a goal, the charity is likely to fail. If the charity’s mission isn’t clear, it’s probably worth looking for a charity that does have a clear mission.
- Check if the charity has measurable goals. An effective charity has clear goals. You want to know your donation will help the charity reach its goals. But if it doesn’t have targets, it’s likely to fail or squander your gift. The charity should be able to account for its spending and supply evidence of the work they do.
- Assess the successes or goals the charity has achieved. You wouldn’t invest in a business if it kept missing its targets. In the same way, charities are like this too. If no one is assessing the progress a charity makes in reaching its targets, the chances are not making positive change.
- Check the charity’s financials and stats. Trustworthy organizations will publish financial statements and reports each year. Some might be exempt from having to do so, but they should be able to provide them to public members who are interested in donating.
- Locate sources who work with or benefit from the charity. Word of mouth and first-hand experience of a charity’s work lets you know the charity’s quality. If you’re able to do so, check out the charity for yourself or speak to someone familiar with it. This way, your donation will go to the right place.
How Can You Best Support These Charities?
After you’ve made your decision, it’s time for you to decide on how you’d like to help the charities you’ve chosen. Check how you can help – each charity runs specific programs that have unique aims. Find out what the aim of such programs is and whether they are right for you.
Here are a few ways you can help your chosen charity:
- Donate money. You can find donation pages on the website of most charities. Your donation can be a one-time payment, or you can set it to be deducted regularly at different intervals. You can mostly pay via credit card, but some charities also take PayPal or Bitcoin payments.
- Buy their official merchandise. The charities can also raise money by selling merchandise. So, you can support them by buying the mugs, shirts, caps, pens, pencils, and any other such items they may be selling. Ideally, you should buy as much as you can to share and spread the word about the charity’s activities.
- Engage in volunteer work. As you’ve seen from our descriptions above, some charities engage in a lot of local and grassroots programs. You can help by taking on and organizing the program in your local area.
- Help their fundraising efforts. You can spread the word about the charity in your workplace, school, church, etc., and hold creative fundraising drives on social media or offline within your small circles.
- Share their stories. Most charities have compelling stories that you can share with your audience to attract more people to the cause.
Final Thoughts
Now it is just up to you to select the charity that resonates most with you. And whichever charity you end up choosing and contributing to, we are sure that they will immensely appreciate your support. Hopefully, the information within this article has made this selection process a bit easier for you to support charities dedicated to LGBTQ+ rights – based on the causes that matter most to you.
Stay impactful,
PS: Finally, I want to leave you with a thought-provoking TED talk from Dan Pallotta, a leading philanthropic activist and fundraiser, about what is wrong with the way we think about charities – and what we can do about it:
Sources
- The Trevor Project: Our Team
- YouTube: The Trevor Project
- Charity Navigator: The Trevor Project
- GuideStar: The Trevor Project
- The Trevor Project: Research
- The Trevor Project: Advocacy
- The Trevor Project: Annual Report
- The Trevor Project: Donate
- The Trevor Project: Volunteer
- The Trevor Project: Online Shop
- PFLAG: Our Story
- YouTube: PFLAG A Journey of Love
- Charity Navigator: PFLAG
- GuideStar: PFLAG
- PFLAG: Policy Statements
- PFLAG: About
- PFLAG: International Chapters
- PFLAG: Chapter Scholarship Programs
- PFLAG: Donate
- American Civil Liberties Union: ACLU History
- American Civil Liberties Union: The Bill of Rights: A Brief History
- American Civil Liberties Union: Stonewall at 50. ACLU at 100. A Legacy of Fighting for Justice and Equality
- YouTube: American Civil Liberties Union
- Charity Navigator: American Civil Liberties Union
- GuideStar: American Civil Liberties Union
- American Civil Liberties Union: Stonewall at 50. ACLU at 100. A Legacy of Fighting for Justice and Equality
- American Civil Liberties Union: ACLU History
- American Civil Liberties Union: LGBT+ Rights
- American Civil Liberties Union: Monthly Commitment
- True Colors United: About Us
- YouTube: True Colors United
- Charity Navigator: True Colors United
- GuideStar: True Colors United
- Charity Navigator: True Colors United
- True Colors United: True Colors Challenges
- True Colors United: True Colors Community Initiatives
- True Colors United: 2019 Pride Challenge
- True Colors United: Donate
- OutRight Action International: Our Story
- YouTube: OutRight Action International
- Charity Navigator: OutRight Action International
- GuideStar: OutRight Action International
- OutRight Action International: About Us
- OutRight Action International: Donate
- OutRight Action International: Join OutRight’s Newsletter
- Lambda Legal: Lambda Legal History
- Lambda Legal: In My Own Words
- YouTube: Lambda Legal: We’re Here
- Charity Navigator: Lambda Legal
- GuideStar: Lambda Legal
- Lambda Legal: Impact Newsletter Fall 2021
- Lambda Legal: Landmark Cases
- Lambda Legal: Impact Newsletter Spring 2021
- Lambda Legal: 2020 in Review
- Lambda Legal: Donate
- Lambda Legal: Volunteer
- Lambda Legal: Events
- Lambda Legal: Campaigns
- GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders: History
- YouTube: GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders
- Charity Navigator: GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders
- GuideStar: GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders
- GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders: Know Your Rights
- GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders: Our Impact Cases
- GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders: Improve Access to PrEP in Maine
- GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders: Donate
- Human Rights Campaign: Volunteer
- YouTube: Human Rights Campaign
- Charity Navigator: Human Rights Campaign
- Human Rights Campaign: Our Work
- Human Rights Campaign: Annual Report 2020
- Human Rights Campaign: Annual Report 2018
- Human Rights Campaign: Donate
- Human Rights Campaign: Get Involved
- Human Rights Campaign: Mobilize
- It Gets Better Project: About It Gets Better
- YouTube: It Gets Better Project
- GuideStar: It Gets Better Project
- It Gets Better Project: About It Gets Better
- It Gets Better Project: About It Gets Better
- It Gets Better Project: Annual Report
- It Gets Better Project: Donate
- It Gets Better Project: Online Shop
