Providing Financial Support for LGBTQ+ Performing Arts Organizations

Jon Sims began the LGBTQ+ performing arts movement when he formed a gay marching and concert band in San Francisco in 1978. To carry on his dream, the JSEF attracts donations and bequests, invests the contributions, and distributes grants to qualified groups. With your assistance, the JSEF can grow its endowment fund and provide more financial support for our performing arts family. 

Grants Awarded To Date
$ 1

Grants have helped LGBTQ+ organizations in all stages of development. 

ORGANIZATIONS HAVING ENDOWED FUNDS
1

Learn about all the 19 amazing arts groups that have  endowed funds with JSEF.

JSEF Endowment Value (as of December 2025)
$ 1000000

Over the years we continue to grow. JSEF only started with $50,000 in 1989.

Growing List of Organizations with Endowment Funds!

A map of the United States and the locations where JSEF members are located.

Map showing organizations with endowed funds managed by JSEF. For the full list of funds managed by JSEF and how you can give additional support to one of the groups.

…DCDD is grateful to JSEF for their diligent stewardship of its collective funds…We are proud to continue to invest with JSEF for the future of our musicians and our performers. We are thankful for the service provided to our community by all associated with JSEF.” – Kyle Ruempler, Treasurer, D.C.’s Different Drummers (Washington, D.C.)

A grant from JSEF got us over the hump, saved our organization, and got us on a road to success. It truly was a Godsend and taught us to fund raise. It got us set up for success and we will be forever grateful.” – Tony Daniels, Former Board Member of the Oak Lawn Band (Dallas, TX)

Planting the Seed for Your Future Starts Today

It’s never to early to start a fund of any size for an LGBTQ+ performing arts organization you love. Or even a named foundation of your own.

Recent News

Award plaque of The Jon Sims Excellence Award
Jazz Ensemble drum set on the left and two electric bass players using their new guitar amps.
Palm Springs Gay Men’s Chorus using the risers funded in part by JSEF at their concert.