The Leonard-Litz Foundation is pleased to announce that it has awarded $25,000 to the Odyssey Teen Camp (OTC) summer program. The Foundation’s grant to OTC is part of its ongoing efforts to support programs that serve LGBTQ+ youth with impactful, life-affirming services.
The OTC is a nonprofit overnight camp for teens ages 12-18 who seek an inclusive, non-judgmental environment where they can express their true selves. Sixty percent of OTC campers identify as LGBTQ+, and the camp offers them an opportunity to focus on connecting, away from sexuality/gender-based bullying. The OTC will use the Leonard-Litz grant to support its scholarship program, which is targeted at low-income families and aims to bring more LGBTQ+ teenagers of color to attend the camp and benefit from its positive impact.
“We have seen that when LGBTQ+ youth experience unconditional love and support from their peers, they leave emotionally stronger, more resilient, and with more self-confidence,” said Adam Simon, founder of the Odyssey Teen Camp. “This funding from the Leonard-Litz Foundation will enable us to expand the families we are able to serve and make our camp more diverse. We are profoundly grateful for the Foundation’s support.”
Since its launch in Fall 2020, the Leonard-Litz Foundation has been accepting grant proposals from diverse nonprofit charities throughout the northeast U.S. that are focused on improving the lives of LGBTQ+ individuals in the areas of health and wellness, social justice, advocacy, and others.
“We want to be able to reach LGBTQ people at the earliest age possible, when the influence is needed,” affirmed Elliot Leonard. “We have these sisters and brothers in great need in our own backyard, stated Roger Litz. “Let’s do something about it.”
We invite you to take a look at our website at leonardlitz.org to learn more about the Leonard-Litz Foundation. Stay informed of our latest grants, stories and community impact by subscribing to our e-newsletter and following us on social media, or email us at info@leonardlitz.org.