Love. Integrity. Advocacy. Mentorship.
Together we can build strong foundations
Looking for LGBTQ+ Support or Resources?
The LIAM Foundation is dedicated to providing direct support to the LGBTQ+ community in Northern Illinois, with a focus on meeting the needs of transgender individuals. Whether you’re seeking resources, advocacy, or a welcoming space, we’re here to help you feel seen, supported, and empowered.
Our services are available to individuals residing in Winnebago and Boone counties.
Be sure to scroll all the way down the page to learn about ALL we have to offer!
Drop-in & Express Your Self
At The LIAM Foundation, we believe everyone should have the opportunity to express their gender identity freely and confidently. We are excited to announce the opening of our new FREE Boutique, Second-Hand Pride, where you can access a variety of items to support your journey, including:
Gender-affirming items such as binders, breast forms, packers, and tucking underwear
Regular clothing options for all styles and needs
Hygiene products and personal care items
Stop by during our drop-in hours:
Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10 AM to 5 PM
Empower yourself, embrace your identity! We’re here to support your journey every step of the way!
Monthly Gatherings & Groups
Connect with community through our programs and support groups. Whether you’re looking to share experiences, get support, or just spend time with people who understand, there’s a place for you here. Come as you are—we’re in this together.
All groups meet at our center located at 1005 5th Ave. Rockford, IL.
There’s no need to register for of our monthly gatherings. Although, you may reach out ahead of time of you like, with any questions to eden@theliamfoundation.org.
Legacy Brunch (45+) 1st Sunday: 1 PM – 3 PM
PFLAG Rockford Monthly Meeting 1st Tuesday: 6 PM – 7:30 PM
1st Friday Night Movies 1st Friday starting @ 6 PM
Open House 18+ (2X’s ea. month) 2nd Friday: 6 PM – 8 PM & 4th Saturday: 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM
Diversity Teen Meetup (ages 13-19 | 2X’s ea. month) 2nd Saturday: 6 PM – 8 PM & 4th Saturday: 6 PM – 8 PM
Open Mic Poetry Night 3rd Friday: 6 PM – 8 PM
Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) 3rd Saturday: 2 PM – 5 PM
In Transition (trans and nonbinary adults 18+) 4th Friday: 6 PM – 8PM
Access Program
Your path forward, with someone by your side.
We understand the unique challenges LGBTQ+ individuals face. That’s why our Access Program offers personalized support tailored to your needs. Our small but dedicated team works alongside you to connect you with essential resources, advocacy, and guidance.
Through the Access Program, you can receive help with:
- Navigating housing stability and advocacy
- Accessing physical and mental healthcare, including HRT information and wellness navigation
- Abortion companion services
- Support for family, friends, and allies
We’ll work with you to create an individualized plan focused on your well-being, stability, and success—meeting you where you are and walking alongside you.
Ready to take the next step? Fill out our registration form and book your appointment to get started, and let us support you on your journey. Join the LIAM Family today, where inclusivity, care, and empowerment thrive.
The Name Change Project
Since 2018, our Executive Director, Phyllis, has been helping transgender and nonbinary individuals through the legal name change process—long before The LIAM Foundation officially launched in 2020.
Through The Name Change Project, we’ve now supported over 400 individuals in legally changing their names. This service is available to transgender, nonbinary, and gender non-conforming people in Winnebago and Boone Counties who have lived in Illinois for at least 3 months.
We know that accurate identity documents are more than just paperwork, they’re essential for safety, access to services, and living authentically. Our team walks alongside each person to help navigate the legal system with care and dignity.
*While this service is available to all Illinois residents, we can only provide financial assistance (outside of fee waivers), transportation, and specific fee information for Winnebago and Boone counties. For Illinois residents outside of our service area reach out to: Transformative Justice Law Project, Name Change Mobilization Program.
Note: LIAM does not directly represent individuals seeking legal name changes. Instead, LIAM aids participants in the Name Change Project with filing pro se—everyone has the right to file an action on their own. However, remember that as a pro se litigant, you are representing yourself.
How Our Process Works
Step 1: Complete the Name Change Registration Form
All initial requests for name change assistance must be submitted through our online registration form below.
Step 2: LIAM Determines Your Eligibility for Assistance
Sometimes, we may need to complete a follow-up intake, to gather additional information about your financial standing or to prepare you for the required documentation if assistance is needed.
Step 3: Review and Sign Participant Agreement
Before you begin working with a member of our team, you’ll be asked to sign a Participant Agreement, which outlines key details of our program.
Step 4: Make a Plan to Visit Our Center
You can stop in on Monday or Wednesday from 10 AM – 5 PM or set up an appointment for days and times outside of that to meet with a staff member about filing your name change. Virtual meetings are an option as well, please let us know if you need accommodations.
We look forward to helping you, meet your goals! Please contact us with any questions.
LIAM’s Fund
Flexible Micro Grants to Support LGBTQ+ Lives
At The LIAM Foundation, we know that every journey is unique — and sometimes life throws unexpected challenges in the way. LIAM’s Fund offers flexible micro grants designed to break down financial barriers and help LGBTQ+ individuals thrive with dignity and confidence.
Who can apply?
LGBTQ+ individuals living in Boone and Winnebago counties facing financial challenges related to basic needs, healthcare, transportation, or vital records.
What can LIAM’s Fund help with?
You can apply for one or more types of support, tailored to your unique needs, including: Food, Housing, Healthcare Assistance, Transportation, Vital Records Fees.
Since launching, LIAM’s Fund has provided over $70,000 in micro-grants to support LGBTQ+ individuals with essential needs, gender-affirming care, and crisis assistance.
This fund is made possible through the generous support of the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois | Dr. Louis & Violet Rubin Fund, allowing us to extend vital resources to those who need them most.
LIAM’s Fund is currently closed — please check back soon for updates on when applications will reopen.
PFLAG Rockford Chapter
Shout out to our local PFLAG Chapter!
PFLAG Rockford meets the 1st Tuesday of each month at the LIAM Foundation 6 PM -7:30 PM
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.
To contact PFLAG Rockford, reach out to Board President: Frank Langholf – fslangholf@gmail.com
