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 hundreds individuals legally change their name.
The LIAM Foundation’s Name Change Project offers free assistance to transgender, gender non-conforming, and non-binary individuals.
We assist 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.
*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.
Access Program
We understand the unique challenges LGBTQ+ individuals face. That’s why we offer specialized services tailored to your needs through our Access Program. Our small but dedicated team works 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 staff 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.
Our Access Program 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]
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: 6-8pm & 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
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 6 PM -7:30 PM
