Meet the "dad" who has ensured more than 1,000 LGBTQ+ people have had a "stand-in parent" to stand by their side during important life milestones."

In 2021, Daniel Blevins posted a TikTok video which sparked his global movement.

Inspired by his upbringing in rural East Tennessee — where he said LGBTQ+ representation was nonexistent — the 48-year-old offered to be a "stand-in dad" for LGBTQ+ people whose families wouldn't attend their weddings. "

"I was always looking for ways to be the representation I didn't have growing up," Daniel, a hair salon owner and founder of the nonprofit organization Stand in Pride, shared. "

"I was also inspired by Sarah Cunningham, the founder of Free Mom Hugs, who offered to do something similar as a mom for LGBTQ+ weddings."

The idea quickly struck a chord. "The video got some traction," the Oneida, Tennessee native recalled. "

"A lot of people in the comments said, ‘I would love to do this.' Others said, ‘I'm not getting married, but I would love to have a parental figure in my chosen family.'" "

Recognizing a need for connection beyond TikTok comments, Daniel created a private Facebook group in February 2021.

"It quickly grew. We currently have 26 Facebook groups and well over 300,000 members around the world. "

"And we just launched our very own app, so now we're transitioning from Facebook to our own platform."

Through Stand in Pride, people offering support can post about themselves, their interests, or their families, while those seeking support can connect privately.

To date more than 1,000 people have acted as stand in parents for people who didn't have a mom or dad to stand by their side, during important life moments.

"It works both ways," Daniel explained. "Someone offering support might post, and someone looking for a connection could reach out — or vice versa. "

"It could be as simple as saying, ‘I'm here, I'm looking for this.' Then a conversation starts."

For Daniel, being a stand-in dad is more than a symbolic gesture. He's personally stood in at two weddings and been a "virtual dad" for countless others when they need me."

"I flew to California last summer for one and drove two hours in Tennessee for another. But the support goes far beyond weddings," he said. "

Although he has "no way of knowing" how many stand-in moms and dads Stand in Pride has provided because "those connections happen privately," the benefits of his organization have been apparent."

One story that stood out early on involved a young trans man preparing for a job interview.

"He couldn't tie a tie, so some dads jumped on FaceTime and taught him. "

"We've had parents help with buying homes or cars, sharing recipes, and even just texting or FaceTiming to check in. "

"It doesn't always have to be in person — it's about showing up however you can."

Stand in Pride has had an immeasurable impact. "I've had people tell me, ‘Thanks to this group, I'm still here.' It saved my life," Daniel shared."

"I never imagined a small gesture could turn into something like this." "

The group has even played a role in helping members escape dangerous situations.

"We've had members rescued from domestic violence and homelessness. Those are their stories to tell, but I can tell you they happened."

For Daniel, it's all about the small acts of kindness that build meaningful connections.

"A lot of us take having affirming families for granted," he said. "

"For so many, it's the difference between feeling alone and knowing someone has your back. A small gesture can truly change someone's life."

Today, Daniel continues to grow Stand in Pride, working tirelessly to make sure no LGBTQ+ person feels unsupported.

"The feedback has been amazing," he said. "What started as a simple idea has become a global community of love, acceptance, and support."