PFLAG Jacksonville

PFLAG Jacksonville is the Northeast Florida chapter of PFLAG, working toward a caring, just and affirming world for LGBTQ+ people and those who love them. Frieda Saraga began holding meetings in the early 1990s at the urging of her son, Scott Saraga, and the group became an official PFLAG chapter in late 1992. What began as monthly support meetings for LGBTQ+ people and their families has grown into a chapter focused on support, education and advocacy.

The Frieda Saraga Scholarship Program is the chapter's signature effort. Started after chapter leaders met college scholars at a 1996 gathering, it has awarded more than 390 scholarships to out LGBTQ+ students who live or study in Baker, Clay, Duval, Nassau, Putnam or St. Johns counties and have worked to benefit the LGBTQ+ community. Scholars enrolled in college or trade school receive an award for the year, and memorial funds honoring Scott Saraga and Dr. Tom Serwatka help keep the program growing.

Through its Sex and Gender Education (SAGE) program, the chapter trains businesses, healthcare providers, news organizations, faith communities, educators and family groups in LGBTQI+ cultural competency, pronouns and gender, and inclusive sexual health education. Sessions are offered in person or virtually and can be tailored to each group's needs and budget, and SAGE's free video series includes Beyond the Binary and Good Allyship.

Members join both the local chapter and PFLAG National, and their dues support the chapter's helpline, programs and publications. Volunteers represent PFLAG Jacksonville at community events, and local businesses support the work as sponsors.