LOVE ON A MISSION

Love on a Mission: Our Story

It started with love—and a promise.

Love on a Mission (LOAM) was born from a mother’s love and a deep belief that every young person deserves to feel safe, valued, and free to be themselves. When her twins came out, she saw firsthand how few affirming spaces existed for LGBTQIA+ youth in rural Richland County, Ohio. So she made a promise—to her children, and to every young person like them: You will never have to go through this alone.

What began as a heartfelt mission quickly grew into a community-powered movement.

Who we are

LOAM is a grassroots nonprofit that builds community and safety for LGBTQIA+ youth and their families. We create spaces where young people can express themselves, make authentic connections, and thrive—even in places where acceptance can feel out of reach.

Our programs are youth-led, inclusive, and designed for real-life challenges and dreams.

What we do

• Weekly Drop-Ins:  A safe, affirming after-school space for LGBTQIA+ youth to hang out, get support, and build friendships.
• Art Projects & Summer:  EventsWe use creativity to foster healing, expression, and pride. Our community murals and art workshops bring color and visibility to rural spaces.
• Fly Your Flag (FYF):  Our flagship life-skills and empowerment program. FYF supports youth in navigating healthcare, identity, relationships, and societal struggles with confidence and strength.
• Pride At Home:  A support group for parents and families learning to celebrate and advocate for their LGBTQIA+ children.
• Community Engagement:  We show up—at Pride, schools, health fairs, and everywhere we are welcomed—making sure LGBTQIA+ youth are seen, heard, and protected.

Why it matters

In rural areas, queer and trans youth often face isolation, rejection, and higher mental health risks. Many feel invisible. Some feel unsafe.

LOAM stands in that gap—offering not just support, but a sense of belonging. And when youth know they are loved, affirmed, and celebrated, they don’t just survive—they thrive.

Our Impact (so far)

Since 2013, LOAM has:

• Welcomed hundreds of youth through our programs

• Supported dozens of families on their journey to acceptance

• Trained volunteers, teachers, and community leaders in allyship

• Created visibility for LGBTQIA+ youth through art, media, and education

• Grown a network of passionate volunteers and community allies

Where we’re going

LOAM is committed to long-term sustainability and growth. We’re building stronger infrastructure, applying for grants, and growing our recurring donor campaign (Love in Action). Our dream is to one day have a permanent youth center—a place that stands as a beacon of hope and love in Richland County.

Join us

Whether you donate, volunteer, attend an event, or simply share our story, you become part of something powerful:

A rural community that embraces its LGBTQIA+ youth.  A movement that replaces fear with visibility and love.  A future where all kids know they belong—exactly as they are

This is what Love on a Mission looks like. And we’re just getting started.