The LIAM Foundation
This month, we are learning more about the organization The LIAM Foundation and how it works to support the LGBTQ+ community. This organization is one of the four nonprofits that will receive a grant from the Mama Bears Giving Circle in the fall!
About The LIAM Foundation
The LIAM Foundation works to encourage, heal, and empower the LGBTQIA+ community through Love, Integrity, Advocacy, and Mentorship. The organization is the first of its kind in the region, connecting the Northern Illinois LGBTQIA+ community with valuable resources as well as providing educational services to a number of schools, businesses, and organizations.
Learn more about the services they offer below!
LIAM’s Fund
Supporting LGBTQ+ Individuals: Empowering Lives Through Financial Assistance & Micro Grants
LIAM is dedicated to fostering inclusivity and supporting the LGBTQ+ community through tangible assistance. LIAM’s Fund aims to provide essential financial support to LGBTQ+ individuals facing various challenges. We recognize that even small financial barriers can significantly impact the well-being and stability of individuals within our community.
Gender Expression
We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to express their gender identity authentically. That’s why we offer financial assistance programs for gender-affirming items such as binders, breast forms, packers, tucking underwear, and other essential gender expression tools. Our aim is to remove financial barriers and empower individuals to access the resources they need to feel comfortable and confident in their own skin. Through our support, we strive to promote inclusivity, dignity, and self-expression for all.
The LIAM Foundation’s Name Change Project (now offers free clinics for transgender, gender non-conforming, and non-binary individuals, rather than one on one appointments)
We assist these folks in navigating the complex legal process of name change in Winnebago and Boone Counties. For many in the transgender community, obtaining a legal name change is a vital step towards aligning their legal identity with their authentic selves. The absence of appropriate identity documents can pose barriers to employment, education, and accessing public services, often leading to discrimination.
Access Program – Care Coordination Services
At LIAM, we understand the unique challenges LGBTQ+ individuals face. That’s why we offer specialized Care Coordination Services tailored to your needs through our Access Program. Our very small dedicated team works tirelessly to provide personalized support, connecting you with essential resources, advocacy, and guidance.
Whether you’re seeking assistance with housing, healthcare, transportation, gender services or navigating other community services, our Care Coordinators are here to help. By collaborating closely with you, we develop individualized plans to empower you on your journey towards holistic well-being and success.
Programs and Support Groups
Discover camaraderie and understanding as you join our diverse array of programs and support groups. Share experiences, navigate challenges, and celebrate milestones with newfound friends.
All programs and groups meet at our office at 1005 5th Ave. Rockford, IL.
• Elders Brunch
• PFLAG Rockford Monthly Meeting
• Diversity Teen Meetup
• Open House 18+ (formerly known as “Adult Peer Support Group”)
• Open Mic Poetry
• Dungeons & Dragons
• Queer Families Community Connection
• In Transition
PFLAG is the nation’s largest organization dedicated to supporting, educating, and advocating for LGBTQ+ people and those who love them. Our local chapter was founded by our Co-Founder & Executive Director, Phyllis Gallisath, who currently serves as Board Secretary.
PFLAG Rockford meets the 1st Tuesday of each month at The LIAM Foundation 6pm-7:30pm
For Organizations and Businesses
The LIAM Foundation will work with your organization or business to provide quality education and training on diversity and LGBTQ+ issues. Our empathetic and care-centered members can facilitate workshops and/or provide feedback on how your team can better support and advocate for your LGBTQ+ clients and staff.
Time and format of all training is flexible, and we are happy to develop curriculum around your particular needs.
