Safe Schools Desert Cities awards program

by Gloria Kapp, vice president and scholarship coordinator

In 2012, Safe Schools Desert Cities initiated a scholarship program by creating two awards, the Burton-May Pride Award and the Financial Assistance Award, based on a generous donation. The following year, one of the awards was named the Burton-May Pride Award after the founding donors. The purpose for the Burton-May Pride award was formalized as:

These awards were established by John Burton and Ken May to recognize outstanding lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, or intersex (LGBTQI) youth who, through their participation, dedication, and initiative, have helped foster a positive self-image among other LGBTQI youth. Evidence of these attributes may be seen in a variety of instances such as, but not limited to, active participation in a gay-straight alliance, active participation in events sponsored by Safe Schools Desert Cities, participation in the greater LGBTQI community, fostering positive images in others, or setting an example for others to emulate. 

Allies may apply but the number of awards to allies is extremely limited.

This award is not based on scholastic achievement.

The Financial Assistance Award was added to provide a one-time, immediate payment designed to assist with fees for advanced placement exams, admissions applications, or emergency food or housing. Both the Burton-May Pride Award and the Financial Assistance Award are available for students pursuing vocational programs as well as those planning to attend college after high school graduation.

In 2013, Gloria Kapp assumed leadership of the Awards Committee, which continues to provide ongoing support for the scholarship program and selecting recipients. By 2015, the program had grown to ten recipients, and thirty-two scholarships were awarded in 2018. Including awards for the 2021-2022 academic year, over $150,000 has been awarded to students since 2012.

Growth of the program continues to rely on individual donations and important support from other organizations. Ongoing annual awards are supported by the Desert Business Association, the Walt Whitman Foundation of the Inland Empire Community Foundation, and Brothers of the Desert.

Students receiving awards through programs administered by Safe Schools Desert Cities indicate that their awards show important support beyond their dollar value. 

To help continue the financial assistance of our LGBTQ+ youth, please consider giving to any of our scholarships or other funds. Your support is appreciated!