“I really want to leave a legacy that helps people live freely — the freedom to be themselves, to live as authentic human beings without having to hide or face violence.”
Growing up in Southern California in the 1970s, being gay wasn’t something you said out loud. But Mark Colclasure remembers being fortunate to have a mother who loved him unconditionally when he came out—a rare gift, especially in a time when many of his peers were rejected by their families.
“I’ve always been aware of how lucky I was,” he says. “And I’ve never forgotten that others around the world are not so lucky.”
From Awareness to Action: Building a Legacy of Advocacy
Over the years, Mark became more politically and socially engaged, particularly around issues affecting the LGBTQI+ community. But it was a harrowing news story out of Kabul, Afghanistan, that changed everything.
“I read about a young gay couple who were trying to stay safe under Taliban rule. One partner was murdered. The other was told, ‘We got him. You're next.’ It moved me to tears. I felt powerless—how could this be happening just for existing?”
Shortly after, he came across Rainbow Railroad. “The name caught my eye—what a powerful connection to the Underground Railroad in North American history, helping people escape to freedom. I knew I wanted to help.” He began giving annually, supported by an employer-matching program, and has been a loyal donor ever since.
A Legacy of Freedom: Making an Impact Through a Will
But giving today isn’t where his commitment ends. “I decided to include Rainbow Railroad in my will. I wanted to leave a legacy of freedom—the freedom to live authentically.”
His conviction is deeply personal. A close friend, a trans woman, once looked in the mirror after her gender-affirming surgery and said to Mark, “This is how it’s supposed to fit.” He remembers the peace on her face and knew then how transformative living one’s truth could be.
“Not everyone has that chance. For some people, living openly can mean facing violence or even death—not just from the government, but from their own families. Rainbow Railroad helps people escape that threat. That’s why I give, and why my estate will, too.”
He often encourages friends and family to donate in lieu of gifts. “I ask people to give what they can, because I know firsthand: our support directly impacts lives. Literally.”
Even in difficult times, he remains hopeful. “Progress isn’t linear. We may take steps back, but we keep moving forward. Organizations like Rainbow Railroad make sure no one is left behind.”
Mark is committed to rallying others around this cause: “You don’t need to be wealthy to make a difference. Imagine fifty donors giving what they can each year. Fifty people leaving a legacy in their will. Imagine the lives we could impact when coming together to support this cause.”
It’s Never Too Soon: Taking the First Step Toward Legacy Giving
And what would he say to someone considering leaving a gift but hasn’t yet? His answer is simple:
“If you’ve been thinking about it, do it. You don’t need to be a millionaire. You just need to care enough to make a difference. Your legacy could be someone else’s freedom.”
Mark is quick to remind friends that “indecision is a decision.” For him, naming Rainbow Railroad in his estate was simply another act of solidarity—an extension of the annual gifts he already makes. “Even after I’m gone, I want those doors to keep opening,” he says. Estate planning, he believes, does more than protect an organization’s future; it removes the burden from loved ones, replacing uncertainty with purpose. He shares that “it’s never too soon” to begin estate planning. “Writing it into my will means Rainbow Railroad will get the funds, no matter what,” he tells people. “It’s my way of making sure someone, somewhere, can breathe easier and live authentically long after I’m gone”
For Mark, legacy giving isn’t just about what you leave behind—it’s about who you help move forward. Mark knows what it meant to come out and live out loud in his own life—and he’s seen how life-changing it was for his friend to do the same. Through his legacy gift, he’s helping others around the world also live freely, safely, and out loud.
By making a Legacy donation to Rainbow Railroad, you are enabling our mission both now and long into the future, ensuring that your generosity will impact our organization for years or even decades to come. Learn more about how you can plan a legacy gift here.