Founded in 1972, the Imperial Court de San Diego, Inc., (a California, non‐profit, public benefit corporation) has worked tirelessly to improve the quality of life of LGBTQ+ San Diegans. In providing a grassroots forum by which any individual of any background, culture, or affiliation may contribute talents, the Imperial Court puts on shows, galas, fundraising events, social gatherings and countless other functions which have raised desperately needed funds. Grants by the Imperial Court have spanned major political and social initiatives – such as the Human Rights Campaign, the Human Dignity Foundation and The Victory Fund – as well as provided seed money to start major LGBT service providers – such as The Center, San Diego Pride, North County Pride, South Bay Pride and the Lambda Archives.

 

The Imperial Court also focuses on quality of life and self-improvement by supporting agencies such as Stepping Stone of San Diego, Mamas Kitchen, Uptown Faith Community Services Center and Auntie Helens. As the Imperial Court is made up of members of the diverse rainbow of San Diego’s community, it has also supported the Metropolitan Community Church, San Diego Gays Mens Chorus, various Transgender and People of Color organizations as well as outreach to Youth and Homeless.

 

By running several focus programs each year, the Imperial Court provides support, volunteers and financial assistance in ways that are vital to San Diego’s community. Programs include a Winter Blanket Drive for homeless and veterans, the Community Children's Easter Egg Hunt open to all, the NMR/Harvey Milk Student Scholarship Fund, Toni Atkins Lesbian Health Fund, the Tijuana AIDS Fund,  the Scott Carlson/Dan Ferber Thanksgiving Dinner, the Toys for Kids Drive during the holiday season and the Benjamin F. Dillingham III Community Grant which provides personal financial assistance in cases of crisis, death or other unforeseen events.