Friends of Lauri

LGBTQ+ Council

Mission:

Our mission is to build a more inclusive, connected, and joyful mountain community where LGBTQ+ people feel safe, represented, supported, and at home. We create local impact through accessible resources, creative opportunities, mutual aid, community care, and partnerships that strengthen both LGBTQ+ residents and the wider mountain community.

Upcoming Initiatives

  • Community Impact Grants: Investing in LGBTQ+ mountain residents who are creating projects that strengthen, beautify, educate, and connect the Rim of the World Mountain communities. Applications open August 25, 2026

  • Road Rally Fundraiser | September 12, 2026

  • Lauri Carleton Day of Belonging | October 10, 2026

Honoring Love, Unity, & Equality

Lauri Carleton was not just a beloved mother, wife, and friend but a founding member of the Mountain Provisions Co-op community—a fierce advocate for love, equality, unity, and justice. Her tragic death has left a void in our hearts, but her vision for a more caring, inclusive, and harmonious community lives on.

Lauri's Vision for a Better World

Lauri was a pillar in our community, an unwavering champion of values that sought to break down barriers and build bridges. Her dedication to equality and her courage in flying the LGBTQ+ flag exemplify her commitment to creating a world where love knows no boundaries.

The work of our LGBTQ Council aims to keep her spirit alive by supporting the very causes and values Lauri held dear. We pledge to continue standing up for love, unity, and equality.

Community Impact Grants

Friends of Lauri LGBTQ+ Council will award more than $4,000 to local projects that strengthen, beautify, educate and connect the Rim communities.

We invite community members with ideas that strengthen, connect, and care for our mountain community to apply. We're looking to support projects that reflect our shared values and help make our mountain an even better place to live.

This grant program is inspired by Lauri Carleton's vision and hope for a thriving, connected mountain community.

Applicants must:

  • Identify as LGBTQ+

  • Live in the Rim communities Cedar Pines Park to Green Valley Lake

  • Be 18+ (or apply with an adult sponsor)

  • Complete the project within one year

Recipient(s) agree to the following by applying to this grant:

  • Complete project within one year

  • Share bi-annual progress updates

  • Attend Day of Belonging award celebration

  • Present the finished work publicly in the Rim communities

  • Recognize Mountain Provisions and the LGBTQ+ Council as supporters

Grant Pillars

  1. Community Arts & Creativity
    Murals, sculpture, photography, music, theater, dance, film, storytelling, and other creative projects.

  2. Community Resources
    Projects that create something useful for the community, such as libraries, gardens, guides, public spaces, food resources, or accessibility tools.

  3. Education & Workshops
    Free or low-cost opportunities to learn and share skills, knowledge, and experiences.

  4. Community Building & Connection
    Projects and gatherings that bring people together, build relationships, and create a stronger sense of belonging.

Learn More:

Grant Application Support & FAQs

Membership for All

The Membership for All program ensures that membership is accessible for all—because everyone deserves a place at the table.

We believe that access for people of all backgrounds is essential to shaping an inclusive and expansive community. Diversity of experience and perspective makes our co-op stronger, more resilient, and more just.

We review applications monthly and grant members on a rolling basis. You will be notified by our team if your application is accepted.

This program is offered in memory of Lauri Carleton and made possible through the generosity of members Jacob Fenton and Phil Kastel. We’re glad you’re here.