Program Types: Resources, Trans-Specific,

Kyle Scanlon (September 5, 1971 – July 3, 2012) was a well-loved and respected part of Toronto’s trans communities. He was an activist who sought to change the lives of his community for the better. He broke ground by becoming the first trans man to be executive director of a queer organization, Youthline. He worked for Pink Triangle Press and wrote articles in publications like Xtra and fab magazine. He also worked at The 519 for over a decade and was one of the founding members of Trans Access – one of the first education programs of it is kind, focusing specifically on the needs of trans communities.

Kyle was a founding member of Trans PULSE – a team of researchers who were dedicated to demonstrating that research can be done by and for trans communities in positive ways. He was also a member of the AIDS Bureau, Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care’s Gay/Bi/Queer/Trans Men’s Working Group, and was a Co-Investigator on studies focusing on the sexual health needs of trans men. He traveled the world to explore life and was an animal lover who cherished the nature of animals. His cats provided him with much joy.

Kyle was known for his generous and kind nature, and smile. The impacts he made on our community continue today, and we still miss him.

The Kyle Scanlon Memorial Fund will be given out annually and is proud to provide funding to community programs and initiatives that focus on bettering the lives of trans communities.

This fund has been set up by The 519 and his family to commemorate all that he did, and everything he stood for.

The Kyle Scanlon Memorial Fund was established to memorialize the sudden passing of Kyle Scanlon, a long-time staff member of The 519, who worked closely with trans communities to support and advance trans inclusion.

The 2023-2024 Kyle Scanlon Memorial Fund will award a total of $5,000.00 to either one project or a number of projects based in Ontario or Nunavut that support and/or advocate for the improvement of the quality of life for trans communities.

Over the past few years, as many social disparities have become more apparent, community-led efforts to challenge racism, anti-Black racism and systemic injustices have also risen in both prominence and impact. In support of this important work, The Kyle Scanlon Memorial Fund will prioritize projects and people supporting Black and Indigenous communities across Ontario and Nunavut. The Fund committee will also prioritize projects based in rural communities that respond to community need.

Projects can submit for the full amount or any amount under that.

Goals/Objectives of the Fund

The following fund parameters have been established to guide the use of these funds:

  • Commemorate Kyle and his contribution to trans communities and The 519
  • Address issues that impact trans communities including promoting advocacy initiatives
  • Fund specific programs and/or time-limited projects that support the improvement of the quality of life for trans communities

Application Deadline Extension: November 3, 2023 by 5pm

Submit completed application by email, mail, or deliver in person.

E-mail: RHooton@The519.org

Mail or In Person: The Kyle Scanlon Memorial Fund c/o Rebecca Hooton, The 519, 519 Church St, Toronto, ON, M4Y 2C9

Click here to download the application

The application is an editable PDF that can be filled in directly. Right-click and select ‘Download linked file.’

Grant Support Conversation

Are you interested in applying but need more information? Have an idea but not sure how best to explain it? Schedule a chat with one of the Kyle Scanlon Memorial Fund committee members to have an open discussion about your application.

Sign up for a 45-minute spot available between October 10th to 13th, starting at 12pm.

Questions? Contact Rebecca at RHooton@The519.org

You will receive a Zoom link once you sign up for a spot.

Click here to register

Frequently Asked Questions

Do we need to write interim and final reports?

Depending on the length of your project, you may only need to write a final report. Reports should include up-dates regarding revised timelines and remaining budget requirements. The Final report will outline impact and evaluation of project (i.e., numbers of those in attendance and formal feedback). The final report is a required part of receiving the grants. We will also ask for testimonials.

What should our timeline look like?

Your project should aim to wrap up by December 2024.

What types of projects will be considered?

Ideas for projects and initiatives:

  • Community led trans-focused events (film festivals, movie nights, swim nights, clothing swaps)
  • Workshops to increase access and knowledge around technology
  • Enhancing existing community-based programs (ensuring programs can offer food, bringing in special guest speakers)
  • Art projects (creating community zines, community art projects)

Examples of things we cannot fund:

  • Fundraisers
  • Individual’s salaries to run programming
  • Personal expenses (such as costs related to transitioning)

Who can apply for the fund?

Anyone who works with trans, 2 Spirit, and/or non-binary communities is welcome to apply. Projects and initiatives which are led by trans, 2 Spirit, and non-binary people will be given special consideration.

How do you decide which applications are successful?

The 519 has created a fund committee consisting of two staff members, a family member of Kyle’s, and a community member. Every year the fund committee creates an outline which pinpoints the key things we will be looking for. Some things to consider are:

  • Does the project or initiative support members of trans, 2 Spirit, and non-binary communities?
  • How does the project or initiative include members of other marginalized communities?
  • How does your project support Black communities? How does it address anti-Black racism?
  • Who is the project or initiative available to?
  • Are the timeline and budget realistic?

Do I need to be part of an organization or can I be independent?

Due to issues with dispersing funds, we would rather you be connected to an organization or have an organization that can act as trustee. However, if you have an idea, let us know and we will see what we can do!

Kyle Scanlon Memorial Fund: Impact StoryDownload the Application Form