Help Support Sister Maddie Bout You, A Pillar of Our Community

Dear friends, family, and generous supporters,

For years, “Sister Maddie Bout You” (known to some as Shawn) has been a beacon of light in the Castro, the Mission, and beyond. As a cherished member of The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence and a fixture at countless community fundraisers, he has dedicated his life to supporting those in need—emotionally, spiritually, and often financially. Whether providing leadership at some of San Francisco’s most iconic events or spreading joy on the local streets by offering comfort and hope to those who need it, Maddie has always put others first.

Sister Maddie Bout You perfectly embodies the mission of the San Francisco-originated and now worldwide charitable organization, The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence (a leading-edge order of queer and trans nuns and 501-c3 status charity). That mission is to Promulgate Universal Joy and Expiate Stigmatic Guilt. The Sisters are here for the community to foster hope, creativity, and wellness! They believe all people have a right to express their unique joy and beauty.

 

Since their first appearance in San Francisco on Easter Sunday, 1979, the Sisters have devoted themselves to community service, ministry, and outreach to those on the edges and to promoting human rights, respect for diversity, and spiritual enlightenment. They use humor and irreverent wit to expose the forces of bigotry, complacency and guilt that chain the human spirit.

Now, our beloved Sister Maddie finds himself in an unfamiliar and humbling position: he’s the one who needs our help. Due to a serious health crisis and circumstances beyond his control, Maddie had a period where he was unable to work, and the mounting medical expenses, combined with everyday living costs, have piled up and become overwhelming.

Despite his selflessness and the countless lives he’s touched, Maddie is someone who rarely, if ever, shares his own struggles. He’s always worn a smile and given everything he has to lift others. Now it’s time for us, the community he’s supported so fiercely, to return that love and kindness.

Maddie feels deeply uncomfortable asking for help, but he deserves it more than words can express. He has brought joy, comfort, and hope to so many during their darkest moments. Now, it’s our turn to help him through this difficult time.

How You Can Help 

Any donation, big or small, will go directly toward helping Maddie cover his recent and continuing medical treatments as well as basic living expenses while he moves into his new and healthier next chapter. If you’re unable to contribute financially, we ask that you please share this campaign widely with your networks.

Thank you for standing by the person who has always stood by us.

With heartfelt gratitude,  

Joni West