UPDATE: The San Diego LGBT Community Center has raised eyebrows after issuing layoff notices to over 100 employees despite receiving a staggering $19 million donation from local philanthropists Maurice Thimot and M. Rust Rawnsley. The unexpected windfall, aimed at aiding underprivileged LGBTQ+ seniors, comes as the organization warns staff of potential job losses as soon as next month.
Volunteer concerns are mounting as community members question the allocation of the substantial donation, which is reported to exceed the Center’s total expenses in 2022. While officials claim the donation is earmarked for future programs and services, critics argue that the funds could significantly enhance immediate support for the community’s elderly LGBTQ+ population.
Former chair of the Center’s senior advisory committee, Elaine Lewis, expressed discontent, stating, “That $19 million could make a huge difference in the lives of LGBT seniors, but it’s being spent in drips and drabs.” Lewis’s comments reflect a growing sentiment among volunteers and clients who feel the donation is not being utilized to its fullest potential.
The Center’s spokesperson, Gus Hernandez, clarified that restrictions on the donation prevent the establishment of senior housing, leading to frustrations among community members advocating for dedicated senior services. “While we deeply value that vision, the restricted nature of the bequest means we cannot use these funds for capital construction related to a senior center,” he stated.
Despite the financial windfall, the Center has seen a shake-up in leadership. Currently, there is no chief financial officer overseeing its $32 million in assets, raising concerns about financial transparency. Two CFOs left within the past year, leading to questions regarding the management of the funds and the Center’s financial future.
In an April newsletter, board directors claimed that $350,000 annually over a decade would be allocated to senior services from the Thimot and Rawnsley Fund. However, longtime donor Charles Kaminski noted a reduction in vital services, including senior lunch programs, and criticized the lack of communication regarding the donation’s governance.
The situation escalated last month when the Center issued a WARN Act notice, which is required when job eliminations are “certain.” CEO Cara Dessert assured staff that layoffs are not imminent but cited federal grants as a factor in their precautionary measure. “As of today, there are no plans to lay off any staff members,” she affirmed.
With the community in turmoil, many are left wondering how the Center plans to utilize the nearly $19 million gift effectively. Hernandez stated that the organization is actively planning for the long-term use of the donation and is exploring sustainable models to maximize impact for the senior community.
As the Center navigates this complex situation, local advocates are calling for transparency and clarity on how the funds will be used to support vulnerable LGBTQ+ seniors. “Let’s get that out of the way, so we can start discussing how best to utilize $19 million for senior services,” Kaminski said.
The coming weeks will be critical as the San Diego LGBT Community Center addresses both its financial strategy and the pressing needs of the community it serves. Stay tuned for further developments as this situation unfolds.
