Opening Hearts. Building Communities.

Supporting LGBTQ+ persons, organizations, and allies through scholarships and organizational grants.

​Scholarships and Grants​

College scholarships and organization grants for LGBTQ+ people, organizations, and allies provide educational opportunities and help develop communities that last a lifetime. Scholarships of $1,000 to $4,000 are available, with $40,000 in scholarships awarded in total.

​We also provide grants to organizations that support the education, health, or civil rights of LGBTQ+ people and their allies.

Applications available now!

Seeking Future Board Members

Have you ever though about playing a bigger role with Acorn Equality Fund. Consider volunteering for our Board of Directors. Help us to make a difference in the lives of others by sharing of your time and talents. For more information, feel free to contact any board member or complete a brief application.

How Can I Help?

To volunteer to assist with our events, help represent us at Pride events, serve as a Table Captain for our annual Family Breakfast, or volunteer for any of our activities, let us know.

We value each individual and organization that contributes to Acorn Equality Fund. With your support, we make a difference in the lives of people and organizations in our community. Donate now.

​Upcoming Events

Mark your calendars and plan to attend our fundraisers:
Saturday, December 6, 2025: Join us for our Annual Family Breakfast as recognize the achievements of our LGBTQ+ and allied students and organizations.

​​​Learn more or donate now to help fund our scholarships and grants, and to support our LGBTQ+ community.

Mission

Acorn Equality Fund is a grassroots, non-profit organization that provides financial support to advance the education, health, and civil rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people, organizations, and allies in central and downstate Illinois. Since its founding in 1999, Acorn has awarded more $680,000 in scholarships and grants. Together we can build a bright, united future.

​​Acorn Equality Fund is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization.