Love. Integrity. Advocacy. Mentorship.
Together we can build strong foundations
Looking for LGBTQ+ Support or Resources?
The LIAM Foundation LGBTQ+ Center, located in Rockford’s historic Midtown District, is a safe, affirming space for our community to gather, connect, and grow. As the first 501(c)(3) organization of its kind in the region, we provide direct support to LGBTQ+ individuals in Northern Illinois, with a focus on transgender people, and proudly serve individuals and families across Winnebago and Boone counties.
From monthly groups and support meetings to special events, the center is the heart of our work—offering opportunities to belong, build relationships, and access resources designed with the LGBTQ+ community in mind.
Be sure to scroll all the way down the page to learn about ALL we have to offer.
Drop-in Center Hours
Come hang out at The LIAM Foundation! Our drop-in hours are a relaxed, welcoming space where you can connect with friends, meet new people, and access support or resources.
Monday, Wednesday, and Friday | 10 AM – 3 PM
Stop by to chat with our team, spend time in a safe, affirming environment, enjoy a snack from our Family Kitchen/Pantry, or charge your devices while you relax. We’re here to support you and make our space feel like home.
Second-Hand Pride
We believe everyone deserves to express their gender identity freely and confidently. Second-Hand Pride is our free boutique stocked with items to support your journey, including:
- Gender-affirming items such as binders and tucking underwear (breast forms and packers available by request.)
- Clothing for all styles and sizes
- Hygiene and personal care products
- Make-up and skincare
- Period products
- Harm reductions supplies
- Items change often and seasonally
Stop by during our drop-in hours (Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, 10 AM – 3 PM) to browse, find what you need, and connect with our supportive community. Everyone is welcome to explore, pick up essentials, and embrace their identity.
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.
Elders Brunch (45+) 1st Sunday: 1 PM – 3 PM
PFLAG Rockford Monthly Meeting 1st Tuesday: 6 PM – 7:30 PM
1st Friday Night Movies Canceled*
Open House 18+ 2nd Friday: 6 PM – 8 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 we provide personalized navigation and support, connecting you with essential resources, advocacy, and guidance tailored to your needs.
Through the Access Program, you can receive assistance with:
- Housing Stability & Advocacy – Support for both those currently unhoused and those working to maintain safe housing.
- Healthcare Navigation – Access to physical and mental health services, including gender-affirming care and HRT guidance.
- Wellness & Companion Services – Assistance with abortion support, doula services, and other wellness needs.
- Family, Friends, & Community Support – Resources and guidance for strengthening your support network.
- Financial Assistance via LIAM Fund – Help with urgent needs and participation in programs.
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.
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.
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.
*This service is available to residents of Winnebago and Boone counties only. 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 confirm you understand our Participant Agreement, which outlines key details of our program.
Step 4: Set-up an appointment
You can set up an appointment 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. The link to schedule is below.
We look forward to helping you, meet your goals! Please contact us with any questions.
Self-Help Resource Hub – Name Change for Illinois Residents
If you’d like to file your own legal name change, we’ve created Name Change Self-Help Guides for both adults and minors. These guides include official statewide court forms, step-by-step instructions, and important tips — all in one place.
Important: These resources are for informational purposes only. The LIAM Foundation does not provide legal representation.
📂 Adult Name Change in Illinois
📂 Minor Name Change in Illinois
📄 Apply for a Fee Waiver. If you can’t afford the filing fee, you may qualify for assistance.
📌 Tips for Both Adults & Minors
- Keep at least 3 certified copies of your court order once you’ve completed the name change.
- Use your new name consistently right after approval.
- Update all key documents: Social Security, driver’s license/ID, passport, bank accounts, school/work records, and insurance.
LIAM’s Fund
Flexible Micro Grants to Support LGBTQ+ Lives
At LIAM, 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. Individuals must qualify for our Access Program be considered for LIAM’s Fund support. Please complete the Access Program registration to be considered for LIAM’s Fund support.
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.
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
