Frequently Asked Questions

What types of programs does Rainbow World Fund support? Currently, we support programs focused on global HIV/AIDS, safe drinking water access, landmine eradication, disaster relief, education, poverty, and hunger.

Whom do we serve? We serve those most in need, regardless of race, religion, political belief, or sexual orientation. We recognize the dignity and uniqueness of all people, and we believe in the essential unity of all humanity. We serve heterosexual and homosexual alike. We do not require that those we serve support our beliefs or struggles as LGBTQ+ people.

Who are our Partner Organizations? Our current partners include Adopt-a-Minefield, Africare, Blue Diamond Society, CARE, Feeding America, Heartland Alliance, MAG America Inc., Sexual Minorities Uganda (SMUG), and Water.org. RWF currently supports projects in Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, Central America, and the United States.

Does RWF take political positions? No. We do not initiate or participate in political campaigns, nor do we take sides in sectarian disputes. Of course, the very nature of our work, supporting oppressed people, can be seen as political. As LGBTQ+ people, we have come to know the powerful political implications of simply loving one another.

How is RWF funded? Your contributions fund us. With our unique partnerships and volunteer staffing, we strive to direct 100% of your contributions to communities in need. Utilizing our partner's established and effective service-delivery networks allows LGBTQ funds to have maximum positive impact. Donations from RWF's Board of Directors, donations from the public designated for RWF's operations, a small percentage of unrestricted donations, and grants cover the organization's administrative and fundraising costs. Your contributions are 100% tax-deductible.

How are contributions distributed? We want every dollar we distribute to have the most significant lasting impact. Our staff carefully determines how your gift is distributed to each of our program partners based on current need. You can also let us know where to designate your gift to a specific area of need.

How did RWF start? RWF's founder, Jeff Cotter, got the idea because of his deep concern for the state of the world. He wanted to help, so he decided to start where he was – a gay man living in San Francisco. He tried to figure out a way to tap into our community's strength to help others in the world, build bridges, and change the misperceptions and prejudices that much of the world has toward LGBTQ+ people.

He started RWF twenty-two years ago because he believed that LGBTQ+ people, like all people, have a unique role in world healing. He had been working as a social worker in the HIV field for about 15 years. Those years taught him a vital paradox – when we each give more of ourselves, we all have more to offer – more love, more compassion. He also learned that by serving others, we are serving ourselves – that we each have more love to give and more to receive. Perhaps most importantly, AIDS taught him that we cannot wait for others to lead. If we want to see change in the world, we are responsible for creating it.

"The way that AIDS has been allowed to spread around the world is a reflection of our old way of seeing the world and treating each other. For many people, it was okay for AIDS to spread as long as it was not affecting their family, community, or home. We all know now how short-sighted that type of thinking is. People often ask me why it is important for LGBTQ+ people to help others beyond our own community. I have often been told, 'charity begins at home. ' That may be true, but I believe that we are living in a time when we need to expand our definition of what 'home' is and realize that the entire planet is our home and that everyone is our family." - Jeff Cotter