The Diana Foundation: Advocacy, Support, and Legacy

The Diana Foundation, based in Houston, Texas, stands as a beacon of support for the LGBTQ+ community. Since our inception in 1953, we have been unwavering in our commitment to champion the needs of our diverse community. Our esteemed legacy identifies us as the nation's oldest continuously active LGBTQ+ organization.

Our humble beginnings as a social organization evolved as we recognized the pressing needs within the gay community. Rising to the occasion, we embarked on a journey of fundraising, extending our aid to emergent groups striving to offer crucial services. To preserve our rich history, we have partnered with the University of Houston Library, undertaking an oral history project that delves into the personal experiences of our members, shedding light on The Diana Foundation's invaluable contributions within the broader landscape of the LGBTQ+ community, the vibrant City of Houston, and beyond.

In 1976, we acquired our 501(c)3 status. Since then, our dedicated members have contributed over $2.1 million to a variety of organizations. Our Board of Governors meticulously reviews proposals annually, with our membership casting the final vote when choosing beneficiaries.

Our Collective Impact

True to our founding ethos of unity and camaraderie, our fundraising initiatives center around annual social gatherings. These events provide our members and guests with opportunities to contribute through membership dues, attendance fees for our spring Diana Awards, and ticket purchases for our Country Dinner held each fall.

We take immense pride in our annual contributions to a plethora of civic, charitable, and educational initiatives. Recent beneficiaries include The Law Herrington Senior Living Center, The Montrose Center, Seniors Preparing for Rainbow Years (SPRY), Avenue 360 Healthcare, HATCH Youth formerly (Houston Area Teen Coalition of Homosexuals), Open Gate Homeless Ministries, Pet Patrol, University of Houston Library, The Charles Botts Memorial Archives and Library (BOTTS), and Out for Education.

As we look to the future, our assistance remains steadfastly dedicated to areas in dire need, particularly health services, social services, and educational/cultural pursuits.

The Diana Foundation

America's oldest LGBTQ+ organization