Vision Statement

Kaleidoscope’s vision is to create a physically and emotionally safe environment that affirms and encourages self-respect, personal growth, and community among young people who are culturally, ethnically, and sexually diverse; and to ensure that these young people are assured the same rights and privileges afforded to all citizens.

Mission Statement

Kaleidoscope Youth Center’s mission is to serve gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and questioning youth in Central Ohio by providing advocacy, education, outreach, support, and a safe environment.

History

The first meeting of what was to become KYC occurred on February 10, 1994, at the Short Stop Teen Drop-In Center. The initial working group developed vision and mission statements, created bylaws, worked with Huckleberry House to create the Rainbow Pride Hotline, and received 501 (c)(3) status for KYC on December 26, 1994.

KYC moved into its Cleveland Avenue location in February 1995 and opened the drop-in center on April 1, 1995. The Rainbow Pride Hotline moved to KYC from Huckleberry House on January 1, 1996.
During its early years, KYC received grants and gifts from Parents, Friends, and Family of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG); Lesbian Business Association; Franklin County Prevention Institute (FCPI); Greer Foundation; Columbus Foundation; and individual supporters. KYC also received a 1995 Stonewall Community Service Award, a 1995 FCPI Award, a 1996 J.C. Penny Golden Rule Award, and a 1996 FLIP Foundation Award.

In 1998 KYC moved to its new home at on the corner of King and Forsythe Avenues and, in August of that year, hired its first staff member. While at its King Avenue home, KYC increased its scheduled programming to include after school programs and snacks, acquired a stage and youth performance space, and saw huge growth in the number of youth it served.

In May of 2003, Kaleidoscope hired its first full-time Executive Director and began doing more work with Central Ohio Schools; youth service providers and gay straight alliances.

November 2003, KYC moved to 751 Chambers Rd. Kaleidoscope began to offer structured programming centered on leadership, life skills, and education. In December of 2004, Kaleidoscope moved to its current location of 747 Chambers Rd. The sheer size of the new Center has allowed for concurrent programming, and a more dynamic base of programs and services, which you can read more about under The Center.