When Dan Blevins learned about Sara Cunningham’s Free Mom Hugs organization that provides “stand-in” parents for LGBTQ+ individuals who don’t have family supporting them, he decided that was something he wanted to do, too. He made an offer on social media to be a stand-in dad for anyone needing a parent for their wedding or event, which led to him creating the Stand In Pride organization.
Now his group serves as a virtual support network for the LGBTQ+ community, connecting them with 'stand-in' family members. "Those of us that are older, like myself, are there for them, as well as our allies, and in whatever capacity they need us, we're going to be there for them," Blevins says.
Interestingly, not everyone who seeks the organization’s help has an upcoming wedding or event. Many, Blevins explains, are "just alone in the world and they're looking for someone to connect with … just to know that somebody cares." Blevins says that family is just the people who show up and support you, and he believes everyone deserves that.
Source: GOOD MORNING AMERICA