RESOURCES
Services & support for you & your loved ones
Chicagoland is home to a full spectrum of organizations focused on LGBTQIA2S+ health care, legal rights, youth needs and more.
Resources for LGBTQ+ community members + allies
Find trusted resources designed to help our entire community thrive, connect and feel supported.
Community & social connection
Organizations that strengthen LGBTQ+ community life through events, peer networks and inclusive spaces. These groups help people find belonging, build friendships and stay connected to affirming communities.
Chicago’s largest LGBTQ+ community center offering programs, events, support groups and cultural activities.
A nonprofit serving Black LGBTQ+ women and queer communities with programs in health, civic engagement and leadership.
A Black-led, trans-led community center offering mutual aid, housing support and community programming.
A network of faith communities committed to full LGBTQ+ inclusion.
This group, for those who identify as LGBTQ+, meets monthly for conversations, connection, support, and learning.
Youth, education & family support
Resources that uplift LGBTQ+ youth and the adults who support them. These organizations help families navigate identity with care, advocate for safe schools and create affirming environments for young people.
Works to ensure safe, inclusive schools for LGBTQ+ students through training, policy and youth leadership.
Provides drop-in centers, support groups and programs for LGBTQ+ youth across the western suburbs.
A national network supporting LGBTQ+ people and their families through education, peer groups and advocacy.
Guidance and resources for LGBTQ+ students and families.
Advocates for safer schools and youth empowerment through training and policy change.
Health, wellness & recovery
Supportive services for physical health, mental health, HIV/AIDS care and addiction recovery. These organizations prioritize LGBTQ+ inclusive care and create safe spaces for healing.
Housing assistance, HIV prevention, case management and care coordination.
Offers mental health support, harm-reduction services, HIV/STI testing and LGBTQ+ affirming youth programming.
Hotlines, chat support and resources for people facing isolation or crisis.
Inclusive substance-use recovery programs and counseling.
Rights, legal advocacy & civic engagement
Organizations advancing LGBTQ+ rights through legal support, policy work and public education. These resources help individuals understand protections, fight discrimination and engage in civic life.
Legal advocacy protecting civil rights and advancing LGBTQ+ equality nationwide.
Litigation, education and public policy work focused on LGBTQ+ rights and people living with HIV.
Statewide advocacy advancing equality through policy change, community organizing and education.
National organization working for full LGBTQ+ equality through research, policy and public engagement.
Shapes public narratives and promotes fair, accurate representation of LGBTQ+ people in media.
Media, journalism & LGBTQ+ news
Publications and outlets that keep our community informed, connected and represented through storytelling, reporting and cultural coverage.
Chicago’s longest-standing LGBTQ+ newspaper covering local news, culture and community events.
National LGBTQ+ news and perspectives on politics, culture and community issues.
Local reporting for the communities Out With Purpose serves.
Aging, identity & intersectional support
Organizations that support LGBTQ+ people navigating identity, aging, gender expression and intersectional experiences. These groups offer connection, education and advocacy for diverse identities.
Programs, trainings and support groups for older LGBTQ+ adults and caregivers.
Social community for mature gay and bisexual men seeking connection and fellowship.
Education and advocacy for intersex individuals and families.
Support and resources for people exploring gender identity and expression.
The Out With Purpose newsletter
Sign up for the Out With Purpose newsletter to get regular updates on our organization, upcoming events, LGBTQIA2S+ news and more.
CURRENT EDITION
March with us in the Oak Park 4th of July Parade and celebrate pride, community and inclusion. Meet at Adams and Cuyler at 9:30 am in Position #13 for a family friendly walk with PFLAG, wristbands, water and a decorated car for those who need a ride. RSVP to events@opalga.org so we know you’re joining us.
Past editions
April 2025
Preview of April’s social events and opportunities to connect.
December 2024
Invitation and details for the annual gathering.
December 2024
Combined update on events, the rebrand, and community activities.
December 2024
Announcement of the organization’s rebrand and what’s ahead.