We are here...inventing the future!

 
CAAN events are free unless noted.

Not in Chicago:

One of the biggest issues is finding places for folx to get together. This space will be used to list all the LGBTQIA happenings in the suburbs. Stay tuned while this spot is fine tuned.

Joliet PrideFest:

PrideFest: A one day event with year long planning. Join us! Maybe Summer 2021 we will be back together en masse.

Gender Explorers: On hiatus

Gender Explorers is a free, peer-run support group for transgender adults in and around Joliet. Our mission is to provide a safe and confidential space for individuals to share their personal experiences and explore questions of identity, transition, and/or coming out with people on similar paths. We are inclusive of both female-to-male (FTM) spectrum and male-to-female (MTF) spectrum individuals, of genderqueer persons, of intersexed folks, and of those questioning their gender identity. People of color and people with disabilities are encouraged to attend. The meeting space is accessible. The group meets monthly on 3rd Wednesdays from 6:30p - 8p Universalist Unitarian Church in Joliet. 3401 W. Jefferson Joliet, IL 60431 For more information E-mail Gender Explore.

Unicorn: On hiatus

Unicorn is a free, peer support group for transgender and questioning youth and their parents/caregivers. The youth meet each other while their parents/caregivers support and share with each other. For ages up to 18 years old. They meet every other month on the 1st Mondays from 7:00p - 9p Universalist Unitarian Church in Joliet. 3401 W. Jefferson Joliet, IL 60431

LGBTQ Seniors: On hiatus

LGBT Seniors Program at West Suburban hosts a lunch and discussion group is on hiatus. The LGBT Seniors Program offers free case management (seniors 55 and up in the western suburbs) and mental health counseling. All programming takes place at the Forest Park office location at 8300 Roosevelt Road. Go to their website here. Contact the LGBT Program Director at 708-234-1859 or [email protected] for more information.

Consider a Career as a Foster Parent:

Foster parents who work for SOS Children’s Villages Illinois:

• Live in a Village home and are provided a vehicle and household budget.
• Are professionally trained and benefit from a community of support.
• Are provided a stipend in return for their service.
• Care for up to six children - siblings are kept together.
• Can be single, or married with one person working outside of the home.
• Save lives by giving of themselves and making sure that the needs of the children in their care are met.

There are 3 villages in Illinois. One is in Lockport. For more information, please contact SOS Children's Village

Youth and Young Adult LGBTQIA Peer Support Groups

Pinwheels is a network of families embracing their children's and teens gender creativity in a kind and loving manner. Our support group focuses on providing a monthly meeting place for parents to connect with other families by sharing information and experiences. There is a group in Homewood. Go to their website here. If you want information about a youth group in Joliet please fill out the contact form.

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The GLBT National Help Center has a Trans Teens Online Talk Group and GLBT Youth talk line. Please go to their website. for more information.

Transgender Remembrance:

Anybody who steps outside of gender stereotypes can be at risk for discrimination, violence and murder. These issues are intersectional. A disproportionate number of murder victims are transgender women of color. People who do not consider themselves a part of the LGBTQIA communities are at risk if they are perceived to be part of the LGBTQIA community.