Our Austin

OutYouth Began Rebuilding Its Austin Headquarters

The organization has raised $2.2 million toward a $3.52 million goal to restore the facility after water damage.

Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in LGBTQ+

Bold vector editorial illustration of a partially restored community building with wooden scaffolding, representing the youth center's ongoing renovation.
OutYouth has begun rebuilding its Austin headquarters after a 2024 water leak, raising $2.2 million toward the $3.52 million restoration project. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Do you feel your local community provides enough safe spaces for young people?

OutYouth has kicked off the construction of its new headquarters at 909 E. 49th½ St. after a 2024 water leak rendered the previous building unusable. The youth-focused organization, which has operated at the site since 1998, is now working to secure the remaining funds needed to complete the project.

Why it matters

Replacing the damaged facility is essential for the organization to maintain a dedicated safe space for LGBTQ+ youth in Austin. The project remains ongoing as the group works to bridge the gap in its capital fundraising campaign.

OutYouth has raised $2.2 million toward a total $3.52 million project goal, leaving $1.3 million still to be secured. These figures track the current progress of the rebuilding effort for the site off Airport Boulevard.

The players

OutYouth

An Austin-based organization that provides support and a safe space for LGBTQ+ youth.

Jerry Strickland Jr. and Steve Kubenka Memorial Library

A facility within the new headquarters dedicated to the memory of the two individuals.

The details

The organization moved to the property in 1998 but was forced out in August 2024 after a significant water leak damaged the structure. Following a private groundbreaking ceremony on Oct. 6, 2026, work is now underway to rebuild the space, which will feature the Jerry Strickland Jr. and Steve Kubenka Memorial Library. The group is currently seeking the remaining $1.3 million to finish the construction.

Timeline

  1. 1998: OutYouth originally moved into the property.

  2. August 2024: A water leak rendered the building uninhabitable.

  3. October 6, 2026: A groundbreaking ceremony was held at the site.

  4. October 11, 2026: The project was noted around National Coming Out Day.

The Texas Context

This project reflects the ongoing need for safe public spaces for LGBTQ+ youth in the Austin area, which has seen several groups solidify their physical footprint over the last three decades. The rebuilding of the 909 E. 49th½ St. site follows a pattern of local organizations investing in permanent infrastructure to ensure stability.

Neighbors in the area near Airport Boulevard may notice construction activity at the 909 E. 49th½ St. site as crews work to replace the building. The progress of this project will depend on the success of the remaining $1.3 million fundraising effort.

The takeaway

The community is currently focused on closing the $1.3 million funding gap to finish the new headquarters. Residents can watch for future updates on the project's construction timeline and fundraising milestones as work continues at the site.

Further reading

For more updates on local community efforts, visit the LGBTQand section.

Live Poll

Do you feel your local community provides enough safe spaces for young people?