It is with the heaviest of hearts that we are writing to inform you that Kristi Mason, our beloved LGBTQ+ Elder Advocate, passed away unexpectedly in her home this past weekend. We were lucky to have Kristi not only as an employee since 2021, but as a graduate school work-study student from 2010 to 2011. During her time with us at OutReach, Kristi embodied the word “advocate” with every ounce of her being. Our community was lucky to have her kind heart and fierce spirit consistently working to create a better future not only for our LGBTQ+ elders, but for the generations to come. Kristi’s warmth radiated through everything she did. Her smile was always there to greet you, whether in our Community Center or out at events, and she was always quick to answer the phones to help those in need. Her true passion was working with LGBTQ+ elders to ensure that they have the ability to live authentically happy and healthy lives.

She worked tirelessly to ensure that no member of the LGBTQ+ family would ever feel alone again, and the Intergenerational Dinners she co-organized were just one of the many ways she worked to connect folks from every corner of our community. Kristi was an incredible educator, mentor, and friend to everyone. Being a part of her journey over the last 10+ years is something we will always cherish. There is so much we will miss about Kristi—from the hilarious stories she shared with us of her vibrant life, to the morning Diet Coke talks and floor time in her office, to her general loving and soothing presence. Her passing is a loss that will be felt not only by our organization, but by the entire LGBTO+ community in Dane County. We will share information about her memorial service when we know more, but for now we grieve with all of you.

With love,

OutReach LGBTQ+ Community Center