John  —

We believe LGBTQ+ students know what their schools need to make things better for queer kids on campus. That is why we launched our biggest ever grant opportunity, 50 States. 50 Grants. 5000 Voices — to support projects designed to uplift and empower LGBTQ+ students throughout the country.

And that is why we're thrilled to announce that the inaugural year of 50 States. 50 Grants. 5,000 Voices will award $10K each to 50 schools in 40 states (plus Washington D.C.) — that's $500,000 for LGBTQ+ students. 

From a gender-inclusive closet in New Mexico to a little library project stocking LGBTQ+ literature in Washington, every single one of the projects we're funding this year was proposed by a middle or high-school student in collaboration with a teacher or school administrator. Submissions were received from a wide range of small rural towns, average-sized suburbs, and large urban cities.

“The It Gets Better Project understands the importance of partnering with local leaders who have an intimate understanding of their community’s needs. The 50 States. 50 Grants. 5,000 Voices grantmaking effort places funds directly into the hands of those who know how to allocate them effectively,” says Brian Wenke, Executive Director of the It Gets Better Project. “This initiative strives to put power back into the hands of young LGBTQ+ people, so they can begin to build the world in which they want to live -- starting with their local community. I am grateful for the support American Eagle and Aerie brought forth to make this possible, and I cannot wait to see the work in action!”

Please join us in congratulating all of the 2022 recipients of 50 States. 50 Grants. 5000 Voices. You can learn more about each of their projects here. 

Stay proud, and thank you for continuing to help us support and champion LGBTQ+ youth. 

- It Gets Better Project 

The It Gets Better Project is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a mission to uplift, empower, and connect lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer youth around the globe. All contributions are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. 

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