As we prepare to celebrate Pride Month and all the resilience and joy it represents, we must remember that Pride is also about community—and how we show up for one another in times of need.
We want to share that one of our staff members, Cass Helm, a beloved Pride Coordinator and vibrant part of the Stonewall Columbus team, was recently injured in a serious car accident while traveling home to Columbus on Mother’s Day. Cass’s boyfriend, Avery, was also injured in the accident.
Cass sustained multiple injuries to her legs and ankles, requiring surgery on both legs, and is now beginning the long road to recovery. Avery is scheduled for surgery later this week due to a back injury.
During this time, Cass will be stepping back from her work responsibilities to focus fully on healing and being there for Avery’s recovery as well. We are holding them both in our hearts and sending strength as they navigate the days and weeks ahead.
Cass is an integral part of our team—her leadership, joy, and commitment to community are felt across every program and event she touches, especially in the work of Pride.
We will be sharing ways the broader community can show support, whether through cards, meals, or other acts of care. If you wish to be notified when these opportunities are available, please email us at info@stonewallcolumbus.org with the subject line “Support for Cass.”
If you’d like to send a card, note, or small item of encouragement, we welcome you to send it to Stonewall Columbus and we’ll be sure it reaches Cass with care:
Stonewall Columbus
Attn: Support for Cass
1160 N. High Street
Columbus, OH 43201
In moments like this, we are reminded that Stonewall Columbus is not just an organization—it is a network of care, connection, and collective resilience. Thank you for being part of that network.
With gratitude and community,
The Stonewall Columbus Team
