History

Since 1996, LEAGUE Foundation has awarded 93 college scholarships totaling more than $157,000 to self-identified lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender (GLBT) graduating US High School Students based on the following achievements: a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale; significant involvement in community service; and acceptance to an accredited US college or university.

Originally, the Foundation began as a grass-roots organization with the generous support of LEAGUE Members (Lesbian, Bisexual, Gay and Transgender United Employees at AT&T). Through the years, however, the organization has grown into a national scholarship fund reaching all 50 states with support from corporations, individuals, and other GLBT organizations.

Statistics

• Received 501(c)(3) status from the IRS making the LEAGUE Foundation a Nationally recognized charity .
• Received the support of the Matthew Shepard Foundation and Judy Shepard to create the MATTHEW SHEPARD SCHOLARSHIP in dedication to Matthew's memory, which has been awarded since 1999.
• Since 2006, the LAUREL HESTER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP named after the Ocean County, NJ Police Lieutenant who successfully battled county freeholders for the right to leave her pension and other benefits to her surviving domestic partner has been awarded.
• Has received about 640 applications representing all 50 states
• Has awarded 93 Scholarships
• Distributed over $157,000 to deserving openly "Out" GLBT students going to college.
• Has an endowment fund to preserve and protect financial resources for future recipients.
• Receives continued support from individuals, corporations and other GLBT organizations
• Distributes information to over 200 organizations and publications annually.
• Is listed with nationally recognized scholarship search engines to make it easier for students to obtain information and application forms
• Accepts donations of: automobile, real property, and other tangible assets