LGBTQ+ Rolla is a welcoming, diverse, and close‑knit community dedicated to creating a safe and supportive space for LGBTQ+ individuals and allies across rural central Missouri.
Our Mission
LGBTQ Rolla’s mission is to foster a visible, supportive, and inclusive LGBTQ+ community in rural central Missouri through consistent engagement, resource sharing, and education.
Our Vision
LGBTQ Rolla envisions becoming the central hub for the LGBTQ+ community in rural central Missouri. We aim to promote equity, stability, connection, affirmation, and validation.
Our goals are to:
- – Alleviate feelings of isolation for individuals in rural communities.
- – Develop resources and specialized support services.
- – Create spaces and events that allow individuals to exist comfortably.
- – Provide opportunities for personal reflection, joy, and growth.
Our Story
LGBTQ+ Rolla was founded in 2020 by Onyx Russ and Jonathan Kimball with a simple but powerful goal: to bring people together at a time when connection was most needed. Throughout our first year — even as the COVID-19 pandemic kept us physically apart — we built community through virtual events and online support, creating a strong foundation for the future.
By 2021, we were able to begin meeting in person and held our very first Pride event, which was a joyful milestone for everyone involved. That was just the beginning — each year since, our Pride celebrations have grown larger and more vibrant, becoming a cornerstone of visibility and celebration in Rolla.
We also introduced weekly meetups and monthly social, support, and educational events that give people a regular, welcoming place to connect. Every gathering, every new face, and every shared story has shaped who we are as a community.
Today, LGBTQ+ Rolla is a thriving and ever‑growing community built on the belief that everyone deserves to live their authentic self. We continue to grow, create, and advocate — and we invite you to be part of it.
Get Involved & Connect With Us
Curious to learn more about our organization or connect with a board member? Email us at info@lgbtqrolla.org to discover how we support individuals in our community.
Stay connected with our community on Facebook or Instagram for updates on upcoming events and activities — we’d love to have you join us!
