PFLAG Cedar Rapids

PFLAG Cedar Rapids is the local chapter of PFLAG, the nation's largest family and ally organization, offering support groups, education and advocacy for LGBTQIA+ people and those who love them. Its support groups welcome individuals, parents, family members, friends and allies of gay, lesbian, bisexual, queer, transgender and questioning people, whether someone has just come out, just learned a loved one has, or wants to be a better ally.

The chapter keeps a practical resource library for families in Eastern Iowa: a list of LGBTQ-friendly therapists, the Iowa Guide to Changing Legal Identity Documents, Welcoming Our Trans Family and Friends, holiday tips, book lists for elementary, middle school and older readers, and guides to crisis lines, affirming health providers, scholarships and legal help. PFLAG Cedar Rapids also partners with the Tanager LGBTQ+ Youth Center, where young people and their families find support groups, mentoring, art, tutoring, parent workshops and career exploration.

The chapter began meeting in fall 2010, joined PFLAG National in 2011, and helped launch the local LGBTQIA+ resource coalition. Volunteers and a volunteer board lead the work. People can join as members, donate, or volunteer their time, and anyone looking for a first meeting can reach the chapter by phone or email.