An honest, inclusive approach is crucial in reaching gay donors.

By Paul Barbagallo

Patterns of volunteering also differ, with gay volunteers being much more active. The typical non-gay volunteer averages 18 hours per month, while gay volunteers average 29.

The IGLSS study, which vetted the giving and volunteering patterns of 2,244 gay donors in Milwaukee, Philadelphia and San Francisco, found that the gay and lesbian community contributes roughly equal amounts of money to gay and non-gay organizations. The remainder (14 percent) goes to HIV/AIDS-related organizations.