The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County is currently accepting applications for its GSA/LGBTQ+ Student Club Grant.
Donor Name: The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County
State: California
County: San Luis Obispo County (CA), Santa Barbara County (CA)
Type of Grant: Grant
Deadline: 04/01/2026
Size of the Grant: Less than $1000
Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned
Details:
During the 2026 grantmaking cycle, funding will focus on student-led projects that strengthen belonging, student well-being and advocacy for LGBTQ+ students in San Luis Obispo County and Northern Santa Barbara County. Projects may fall within the following categories:
On-Campus Advocacy & Education
- Engaging fellow students through educational events, guest speakers, film screenings, or facilitated conversations that promote understanding and inclusion.
- Increasing awareness and visibility through outreach materials such as buttons, stickers, or t-shirts.
- Creating activities that foster inclusive school climates.
Off-Campus Community Connection
- Supporting youth speakers or student participation in community meetings or events.
- Participating in Central Coast Pride or other community-based initiatives.
- Organizing community service activities that elevate LGBTQ+ youth voice.
Club Support & Student Well-Being
- Supporting leadership development or training for club members.
- Supporting activities that promote student wellness, peer support, and stress reduction for LGBTQ+ students.
- Providing supplies, materials, food, or transportation that enable club activities.
- Example activities may include: hosting peer support or discussion circles, organizing art or creative expression nights, providing snacks during club meetings, inviting a facilitator to lead a stress-management or mindfulness workshop, or gatherings that encourage connection and fun for LGBTQ+ students.
Funding Information
This grant is funded through Growing Together: An LGBTQ+ Fund to support student clubs in San Luis Obispo County and Northern Santa Barbara County that advance LGBTQ+ student activities, advocacy, well-being, and belonging. Small grants of $500 to $1,000 to support school-based Gender & Sexuality Alliances (GSAs) and other LGBTQ+ student clubs will be awarded.
Eligibility Criteria
- Applicant must be a public middle school, high school, or public college/university (as a governmental entity), or have a current tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(3) and/or 509(a)(1), or operate under a fiscal sponsorship agreement.
- Applicant must be a school-approved Gender & Sexuality Alliance (GSA) or LGBTQ+ serving student club.
- Club must be based at a school located in San Luis Obispo County or Northern Santa Barbara County, including Cal Poly, Cuesta College, or Allan Hancock College.
- Funded projects must occur during the current or upcoming academic year.
- Application must include both a student club contact and a school staff advisor.
Funding Decisions will be based on these Grantmaking Criteria:
- Quality and Feasibility: Is the proposed activity clearly described and thoughtfully planned? Is the timeline realistic within the academic year? Is the budget reasonable and appropriate for the scope of the project?
- Student Leadership and Voice: How are students meaningfully involved in shaping, planning, and implementing the proposed activity?
- Inclusion and Belonging: How does the proposed activity promote belonging, safety, and visibility for LGBTQ+ students? In what ways does the activity reflect inclusive practices and consider the diversity of identities and experiences within the LGBTQ+ community?
For more information, visit The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County.
