Save the date and join us for dinner, drag, silent auction, and more in benefit of The Liam Foundation
We formally invite you to our
Enchanted Garden Gayla
11 /9/2024
6:00pm to 11:00pm
Cliffbreakers Event Center
Rockford, IL 61108
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Services

Love. Integrity. Advocacy. Mentorship.


Together we can build strong foundations

Programs and Services

Looking for LGBTQ+ Resources or Support?

The LIAM Foundation is dedicated to providing direct support to the LGBTQ+ community, 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.

Be sure to scroll all the way down the page to learn about ALL we have to offer!


LIAM’s Fund

Supporting LGBTQ+ Individuals: Empowering Lives Through Financial Assistance & Micro Grants

At LIAM, we believe in breaking down barriers and empowering the LGBTQ+ community. LIAM’s Fund provides financial assistance and micro-grants to individuals navigating challenges such as housing, healthcare, transportation, gender-affirming services, and more.

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.

Eligibility for LIAM’s Fund begins with enrollment in our Access Program, where our Care Coordinators work closely with you to develop a personalized plan for holistic well-being. Through this program, we aim to connect you with the resources and advocacy you need to thrive.

Ready to get started? Complete the Access Program registration form, and let us support you on your journey. Together, we can build a stronger, more inclusive community.


Express Your Authentic Self with the Support You Deserve

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 a.m. to 5 p.m

Empower yourself, embrace your identity! We’re here to support your journey every step of the way!


Name Change Project History

Since 2018, Phyllis, our Executive Director, has assisted transgender and nonbinary individuals with name changes, even before the formation of our nonprofit.

Since LIAM’s inception in March, 2020, we have helped over 150 individuals legally change their name.


The LIAM Foundation’s Name Change Project offers free clinics for transgender, gender non-conforming, and non-binary individuals.

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.

How Our Process Works:

Step 1: Complete our name change registration form.
All initial requests for name change assistance must be submitted via our online registration form below.

Step 2: LIAM determines whether you meet criteria for assistance.

Once we have evaluated your initial intake form, there are three possible responses:

  • Information Request
    Sometimes, applicants must complete a phone intake to gather additional information or prepare the applicate for required documentation. These phone intakes typically take 5-10 minutes, are conducted by LIAM staff members, and are confidential.
  • Clinic Assignment
    Sometimes, clinics can be assigned without any additional information requests and without an intake call. We will still contact you to sign a Participant Agreement, which outlines some important notes regarding our program, before you begin working with a volunteer at our clinics.
  • Decline
    Unfortunately, we are unable to help anyone outside of our service area. If we determine that you are not eligible due to your location, we will let you know via email, and we will send you self-help resources and/or referrals to other organizations whenever possible.

Step 3: Come to Name Change Clinic
If an applicant is eligible for our program, the person will be scheduled for a name change clinic after the Participant Agreement is signed.

LIAM does not directly represent people seeking legal name changes. Rather, LIAM assists participants in the Name Change Project with filing pro se. Everyone has the right to file an action on their own. Remember, however, that as a pro se litigant, you are representing yourself.

Please contact us at [email protected] with any questions.


Access Program – Care Coordination Services

At The LIAM Foundation, 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 small but dedicated team works tirelessly to provide personalized support, connecting you with essential resources, advocacy, and guidance.

Through the Access Program, you can also apply for LIAM’s Fund, which offers financial assistance and micro-grants to help with housing, healthcare, transportation, gender-affirming services, and more. Eligibility for LIAM’s Fund is exclusive to participants enrolled in the Access Program, ensuring a coordinated and holistic approach to meeting your needs.

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 toward well-being and success.

Ready to take the next step? Fill out our registration form to get started, and let us be your partner in progress. Join the LIAM Family today, where inclusivity, support, and empowerment thrive.

Care Coordination Services and LIAM’s Fund are available to individuals residing in Winnebago and Boone counties.


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.

There’s no need to register for our programs. Although, you may reach out ahead of time of you like, with any questions to [email protected]

Elders Brunch 1st Sunday: 1-3pm

PFLAG Rockford Monthly Meeting 1st Tuesday: 6-7:30pm

Diversity Teen Meetup (ages 13-19 | 2X’s ea. month) 2nd Saturday: 6-8pm & 4th Saturday: 6-8pm

Open House 18+ (2X’s ea. month) 2nd Friday: 6-8pm & 4th Saturday: 3:30-5:30pm

Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) 3rd Saturday: 2-5pm

In Transition (trans and nonbinary adults 18+) 4th Friday: 6-8pm

Drop In Hours Monday, Wednesday & Friday 10am-5pm


PFLAG ​Rockford Chapter

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.

Contact PFLAG Rockford, Board President: Frank Langholf – [email protected]

PFLAG Rockford meets the 1st Tuesday of each month at the LIAM Foundation 6pm-7:30pm


Contact us about volunteer opportunities!