Brother, Help Thyself Inc.

Overview

Brother, Help Thyself Inc., also known as the BHT Foundation, was a community-based organization operating as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Its primary mission was to provide financial and other forms of support to non-profit organizations serving the LGBTQ/SGL and HIV/AIDS communities in the Baltimore/Washington, D.C. metro area.

History

Founded in 1978 by four gay motorcycle clubs, Brother, Help Thyself Inc. was one of the first organizations in the United States to provide funding for LGBTQ health, cultural, and social services. Over the years, it raised more than $3.5 million for over 200 nonprofit LGBTQ organizations in the D.C. and Baltimore area.

Operations

The organization was volunteer-led and relied on donations, fundraisers, endowments, and interest for its funding. Brother, Help Thyself Inc. did not receive any federal, state, or district funding. Its grant program supported a wide range of organizations, including those focused on HIV/AIDS services, LGBTQ youth programs, and cultural initiatives.

Impact

During its operational years, Brother, Help Thyself Inc. awarded over 1,098 grants to regional LGBTQ non-profits, totaling more than $3 million. The organization typically provided between $71,000 and $75,000 in grants annually, with allocations requiring annual applications and presentations to its board.

Dissolution

In 2021, after 43 years of service, the BHT Foundation announced its dissolution. The decision was made by the board of directors, who felt that the organization was no longer necessary due to the growth and increased stability of the regional LGBTQ/SGL and HIV/AIDS communities. At the time of dissolution, the board was planning a final distribution of its assets to local nonprofit and charitable organizations.

Legacy

The dissolution of Brother, Help Thyself Inc. marked the end of an era for a pioneering LGBTQ community support organization. However, its legacy continues to influence the region's LGBTQ nonprofit landscape, having significantly contributed to the financial stability and diversification of community services over four decades.

[1] https://www.idealist.org/en/nonprofit/9746f3ef1e804f82954b3235b444cbff-the-bht-foundation-washington [2] https://www.washingtonblade.com/2021/11/13/bht-foundation-dissolving-after-43-years/ [3] https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/521231822 [4] https://www.washingtonblade.com/2019/02/01/brother-help-thyself-turns-40-set-to-give-75k-in-grants/ [5] https://www.volunteermatch.org/search/org421953.jsp