the Frank Harr FOUNDATION

Frank Harr (April 26, 1952 - May 8, 2008), a lifetime resident of South Eastern North Carolina, dedicated his life to building community, educating others about human rights, and advocating for equality for ALL people. Frank touched so many lives through his compassion, humanitarian efforts and his commitment to change. He evoked passion about many issues, whether it was violence within a neighborhood, social justice, or educating communities about HIV/AIDS, Frank was the messenger.

At the early age of 19, Frank was honored with the NC young Republican of  year award, which helped spawn his undying and faithful love for politics. It was not until his late 20's that Frank would become a founding member of Stone Wall Democrats, Wilmington Chapter. His passionate views and unending desire to seek equality for ALL people pushed him into the forefront of 

politics in Wilmington. Frank's political activism led community leaders, from District Attorneys to Senators, to seek his guidance, insight and participation not only within their campaigns, but with their leadership roles within the community. As recent as the fall of  2008, Frank Harr was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award, for his dedication and commitment to the Democratic Party.

Politics was not Frank's only passion: he was an active board member for CARE - a non-profit organization supporting families infected or affected by HIV/AIDS; he co-founded and co-chaired the annual AIDS benefit in Wilmington. Frank and Ken (his life partner of 32 years) were founding members of St. Jude's Metropolitan Community Church, and very active in social justice, ecumenical and community life.