A Regional Imperative for Central Ohio
Stonewall Columbus is located in Columbus, Ohio—but our reach, responsibility, and impact extend far beyond city limits.
Every year, Stonewall serves tens of thousands of LGBTQ+ people, their families, and our allies from across Franklin County and surrounding counties, including individuals who travel to the region for work, healthcare, education, and safety. For many, Stonewall is not simply a community center—it is a regional access point for affirmation, connection, and essential support.
LGBTQ+ community centers like the Stonewall Columbus Community Center play a critical role in the civic and social infrastructure of Central Ohio. We operate at the intersection of public health, economic stability, community safety, and belonging—often filling gaps where other systems fall short.
Stonewall Columbus provides:
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Access to services and referrals through programs like C.A.R.E.S., connecting individuals to affirming healthcare, housing resources, and crisis support
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Community connection and prevention, reducing isolation and improving mental health outcomes
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Education and training for businesses, institutions, and service providers across the region
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Support for LGBTQ+ families and those seeking to build families, including navigation, education, and connection through our Family Pride Network and family creation programming
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Civic visibility and engagement, ensuring LGBTQ+ residents are seen and considered in regional decision-making
These services are not confined to a single municipality. They benefit entire counties, regional employers, healthcare systems, school districts, and public institutions.
As Central Ohio continues to grow, so does the need for inclusive, affirming infrastructure that supports diverse communities. LGBTQ+ people live, work, raise families, and contribute economically across the region. Supporting LGBTQ+ community centers is not symbolic—it is practical, preventative, and community-strengthening.
When centers like Stonewall Columbus are supported:
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Public systems experience reduced strain
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Communities are healthier and more connected
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Regions are better positioned to attract and retain a diverse workforce
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Families of all structures are supported and affirmed
We invite elected and appointed officials to view LGBTQ+ community centers as regional partners—not just city-based nonprofits. Sustained collaboration, visibility, and investment help ensure that all residents, regardless of where they live, have access to dignity, safety, and opportunity.
Supporting LGBTQ+ community centers is an investment in regional well-being.
It affirms that all families matter.
And it is essential to building a Central Ohio where everyone can thrive.
Densil Porteous (he/they)
Executive Director, Stonewall Columbus
