Transformational bequest from entrepreneur Danny Stout to Stonewall Columbus, Kaleidoscope Youth Center, and Equality Ohio honors his commitment to Columbus’ LGBTQIA+ community

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Three leading LGBTQIA+ organizations serving Central Ohio and communities across the state are coming together to honor the life and extraordinary generosity of Danny Stout, a longtime Columbus resident, business owner, and member of the LGBTQIA+ community who passed away in July 2026.

Through his estate, Stout left a combined $750,000 legacy gift to Stonewall Columbus, Kaleidoscope Youth Center, and Equality Ohio, creating a lasting investment in LGBTQIA+ advocacy, young people, community, and belonging.

Stout was the co-founder of CU-Centric, LLC, a technology company, and a Columbus resident since 1982. He had a particular love for Pride on High, an annual celebration that brought people together while raising funds to support LGBTQIA+ organizations and their work.

“Danny understood that community doesn’t happen by accident—we build it, nurture it, celebrate it, and invest in it. This legacy investment provides Stonewall Columbus with the kind of support that is essential to sustaining a necessary community institution,” Lois Hochstetler, Interim Director of Stonewall Columbus. “It will help us care for the spaces that bring our community together, maintain the infrastructure that makes our work possible, and ensure Stonewall remains a welcoming and enduring home for LGBTQIA+ people in Central Ohio for generations to come.”

“At a time when organizations serving LGBTQIA+ young people are navigating an increasingly difficult funding environment, Danny’s generosity provides hope,” said Amanda Erickson, Interim Executive Director of Kaleidoscope Youth Center. This investment will help Kaleidoscope Youth Center continue providing the affirming spaces, resources, and support that LGBTQIA+ young people across Central Ohio rely on.”

“At Equality Ohio, Danny’s gift strengthens something that is increasingly important in this current landscape: our independence,” said Dwayne Steward, CEO and Executive Director of Equality Ohio. “As resources for LGBTQIA+ organizations become less certain, Danny’s legacy helps ensure we can continue advocating, organizing, and providing critical legal support for LGBTQIA+ Ohioans.”

Together, the organizations say Stout’s gift also provides an opportunity to encourage more conversations about legacy giving within the LGBTQIA+ community.

A legacy gift does not have to be extraordinary in size to have an extraordinary impact. Including an LGBTQIA+ nonprofit in a will, trust, beneficiary designation, or estate plan is another way to help sustain the institutions and movements that have sustained the community. Danny’s generosity reminds us that legacy is not simply what we leave behind—it is what we make possible for those who come next.

The organizations extend their collective gratitude to Danny Stout for believing in Columbus’ LGBTQIA+ community during his lifetime—and for ensuring that his support will continue well into the future.

About Equality Ohio

Equality Ohio works to identify and transform systems and institutions so LGBTQIA+ Ohioans can fully access legal and lived equality. Through advocacy, education, community engagement, and legal services, Equality Ohio works toward an Ohio where LGBTQIA+ people can thrive. Contact: media@equalityohio.org. 

About Kaleidoscope Youth Center

Kaleidoscope Youth Center works in partnership with young people to create affirming environments and provide support, education, advocacy, and community for LGBTQIA+ youth and young adults. Contact: info@kycohio.org. 

About Stonewall Columbus

Stonewall Columbus serves Central Ohio’s LGBTQIA+ community through advocacy, education, programs, resources, and community-building while working to increase visibility and advance inclusion. Contact: info@stonewallcolumbus.org