Love. Integrity. Advocacy. Mentorship.
Together we can build strong foundations
Programs and Services
Are you in need of particular resources or services related to being LGBTQ+? Or perhaps you are a business or organization looking for education and training on diversity and LGBTQ+ issues. At The LIAM Foundation we are here to help! We provide assistance in a variety of ways!
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
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.
Please fill out the form below if you are interested in applying for Financial Assistance or Micro Grants
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.
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.
In 2023, we facilitated 53 name changes for our clients.
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.
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 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.
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 available to those 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) 2nd Saturday: 6-8pm & 4th Saturday: 6-8pm
• Open House 18+ (formerly known as “Adult Peer Support Group”) 2nd Friday: 6-8pm & 4th Saturday: 3:30-5:30pm
• Open Mic Poetry 3rd Friday: 6:30-8pm
• Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) 3rd Saturday: 2-5pm
• Queer Families Community Connection 3rd Saturday: 6-7:30pm
• In Transition (trans and nonbinary adults 18+) 4th Friday: 6-8pm
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 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.
Click the form below to reach out to us about diversity training or email us at [email protected].
