Dear Supporters

As we bid farewell to an impactful year, we wish to express our deepest gratitude and share the triumphs, challenges, and progress that have defined LGBTQ+ Rescue Alliance in 2023. This Year-End Report is crafted with resilience, love, and unwavering dedication. 

In February 2022, LGBTQ+ Rescue Alliance, founded by Zaino Mizani and Agustín Moreno, obtained recognition as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Zaino's escape from Iran and Agustín's upbringing in a deeply religious family in CDMX highlighted a critical need in the LGBTQ+ community – English language skills. 

The end of Title 42 exacerbated the Mexico-USA migrant crisis, impacting people from Latin America and countries like Russia, Nigeria, Iran, Syria, and Sudan, where being LGBTQ+ is a daily danger. In Mexico, the third most visited country globally, learning English can be life-changing. 

Throughout 2022, our focus shifted to building our website, enhancing social media presence, and collaborating with allies to create impactful content, ensuring our message reaches a broader audience. 

Collaborations with individuals like Rocco Dix, The Synergy Twins, Ethylina Canne, and Gala Varo enriched our journey. We participated in events at the Hyatt, thanks to Peter Ybarra, and graced Pride celebrations in San Diego, Puerto Vallarta, and Mexico City, bringing vibrant hues to Red Dress parties in San Diego and Palm Springs. 

After identifying shelters in dire need, primarily Casa Frida in Mexico City, Casa de Luz, and Casa Arcoíris in Tijuana, we approached these shelters with love and respect. Our volunteers became the initial pillars of support, working within the bounds of our budget. 

Connecting with Kiwanis in San Diego, we received our first grant from the San Diego Human Dignity Foundation. Volunteer work with San Diego Pride, a workshop with HIP GIVE, and a grant from InterPride, facilitated by Alan Reiff, contributed to our success. The support of Tito’s Vodka and an event hosted by Jeffrey Lehmann's Gay Adventure Friends brought unexpected donations, ensuring a warm holiday season for LGBTQ+ youth in shelters. 

As 2023 concluded, English classes at Casa Arcoíris became a reality, and we celebrated "Dia de los Muertos," a vital Mexican tradition honoring departed loved ones.

We capped the year with a generous grant from San Diego Pride, ensuring our mission thrives in 2024. 

To our supporters, you are the heartbeat of our mission. Your contributions have transformed dreams into reality, empowering us to make a meaningful difference. Connect with us on Facebook at LGBTQ Rescue Alliance, on Instagram as @LGBTQSMILE, and visit our website at lgbtqsmile.org. Together, we create positive change. 

Thank you for being the pillars of strength propelling us forward. 

With heartfelt appreciation, 

Agustin Moreno & Zaino Mizani 

LGBTQ+ Rescue Alliance