1996
The Human Dignity Foundation was established as a 501c3 community foundation for the benefit of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer people in our community. A general endowment fund to benefit our community was created with a gift of $29,000 provided through the generosity of the family of the late Lincoln Aston.
1998
Our foundation is introduced to the public with our first gala event Springtime in the Park. This becomes an important annual event to promote the vision and potential of an LGBTQIA+ community foundation in San Diego.
1999
The Board of Directors hires staff, including an executive director, to lead foundation activities. This gives HDF a full-time presence in our community.
2001
In collaboration with the San Diego Foundation and others, HDF raised $300,000 for our first grant program.
2003
San Diego Pride establishes a donor advised fund to distribute funds raised through our annual San Diego Pride festival. This fund has distributed over $200,000 to our community since it was established.
2007
First grant program funded entirely by income from our general endowment fund. This demonstrates the benefit and potential for a general endowment fund.
2008
AIDS Foundation San Diego selects the Human Dignity Foundation to manage the majority of their assets as a donor advised fund.
2009
Alliance Healthcare Foundation awards HDF a major contract to manage the San Diego HIV Funding Collaborative. That year $220,000 was granted out to local HIV service organizations
2010
The San Diego HIV Funding Collaborative grants out $496,685 to local HIV service organizations.
2011
The San Diego HIV Funding Collaborative grants out $476,685 to local HIV service organizations.
2012
The San Diego HIV Funding Collaborative grants out $438,469 to local HIV service organizations.
2015
HDF launches the Aston-Brooks Gala, a black-tie fundraiser honoring the legacy of Lincoln Aston and expanding the foundation's capacity to serve the LGBTQIA+ community
2016
The Aston Brooks Awards Gala is held to recognize excellence in service.
2016
HDF hosts the 5th Annual Reunion Party to celebrate our 20th Anniversary. This milestone brings together two decades of leadership to reflect on our history and future.
2017
The foundation launches Tacos for Dignity. This event creates a casual environment for supporters to connect with leadership and celebrate the foundation’s ongoing work.
2018
The foundation hosts the HDF September Soiree, continuing to diversify its fundraising portfolio and deepen connections with community members through intimate, high-impact events.
2020
The foundation hosts the HDF 2020 Kick off Mixer. This event brings board members and supporters together to celebrate the start of the new year and upcoming initiatives.
2020
The COVID-19 pandemic forces the cancellation of traditional events and fundraisers. The foundation adapts its operations to continue serving the community during a period of heightened need.
2024
The foundation hosts the 2024 HDF Relaunch Party. This pivotal event reintroduces the foundation to the public and signals a return to active community engagement.
2024
A celebratory HDF Birthday Party is held to honor our leadership. This event recognizes the resilience of the full board and the vital work of our Grantees.
2025
Petals of Promise is launched as a new fundraising initiative. This campaign highlights the growth of our grant programs and the future potential of our beneficiaries.
2025
Past President Madi Hansen is crowned Miss San Diego Pride 2025. This honor underscores the strong connection between HDF leadership and visible advocacy in the region.
2025
Dignity in Motion is established as a variety entertainment showcase. This event mobilizes the arts community to raise funds for the foundation’s ongoing grant programs.
2025
The foundation presents the Rising Humanitarian Award to Rick Arlo. This award highlights our commitment to recognizing and uplifting the next generation of service-oriented leaders.
