New York, NY – The David Wojnarowicz Foundation today announced its grant support of the Hetrick-Martin Institute of New York City, in support of its programs and services for LGBTQIA+ youth.
“This organization changes the lives of young people, providing safe space, counseling, and basic services that offer them critical support on their path to self-sufficiency,” said Anita Vitale, Board Chair of the Wojnarowicz Foundation. “Hetrick-Martin provides young people the room to find themselves and follow their own dreams.”
David Wojnarowicz (1954–1992) was an accomplished artist, writer, and activist. The David Wojnarowicz Foundation advances the understanding of his work through scholarship, exhibitions and publications. The Foundation is created to inspire and foster a new generation of queer artists and writers to find their voice, pursue their truth and to continue the activism that so defined David Wojnarowicz’s life and art. Through scholarships and grants, The Foundation will assist both organizations and individuals that support these ideals.
Hetrick-Martin Institute (HMI) is the nation’s oldest and largest organization helping gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, questioning, intersex, and asexual (LGBTQIA+) youth between the ages of 13 and 24 to reach their full potential. Through a comprehensive package of direct services and referrals, the organization fosters healthy youth development.
Vitale noted the personal connection between Wojnarowicz and HMI. “David’s early life was marked by family violence and dysfunction. For a time he was homeless and had to depend on strangers for help. Whatever his later accomplishments, David never forgot his early circumstances and believed in the work of Hetrick-Martin in serving kids like him.”
After Wojnarowicz’s death from AIDS in 1992, his partner Tom Rauffenbart directed gifts in David’s memory to HMI.
“In making this donation to the Hetrick-Martin Institute, the Foundation is continuing David’s legacy and spirit of generosity in a direct and tangible way,” Vitale concluded.
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