Sunday, September 11, 2005

NEWS: PFLAG Oak Park to become independent

PFLAG Oak Park, which currently functions as a branch of PFLAG Hinsdale, has begun the process of becoming an independent PFLAG organization. The move marks a milestone for PFLAG Oak Park, which was started up some four years ago.

During those four years, the group has offered support to the community not just through its monthly meetings, but through talking with policymakers, giving teacher training, running letter-writing campaigns, providing speakers and being a visible presence at community events, such as the booth selling baked goods that the group has had in recent weeks at the Oak Park Farmers' Market.

"It is important for PFLAG to take its place among other community organizations, and that we can make money while doing so is especially gratifying," says PFLAG member Nancy Johnson, who helped out with the booth.

By becoming an independent organization, the group will be able to properly raise funds to serve the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered community, as well as their familes and friends, among other benefits.