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Thursday, October 25, 2018

Guiding LGBTQ Parent Support San Rafael CA

By Jennifer King


When it comes to coming out, whether as a bisexual, gay man, lesbian, transgendered, queer or non-binary individual, there are those whom are supportive and others whom are not. In many cases, young people identifying as a member of the LGBTQ community, have been known to be kicked out of homes and disowned by family and friends. Whether accepting or having a difficult time, the lgbtq Parent support san rafael ca is just around the corner.

Depending on the type of support needed, there are two options in the North Bay and San Francisco areas. One is that of a small localized support group which can often be found in a number of smaller communities surrounding the city. Whereas, if interested in becoming an ally and member of a long standing organization, PFLAG San Francisco can offer emotional as well as support in other areas.

In most cases, these organizations hold a strict confidentiality factor, though there can be times when an individual can run into someone from the group and inadvertently speak about being in alternative lifestyle or something associated with a prior meeting. Still, by providing assistance to community members, friends, allies and family, the organization has provided a great service to these individuals.

In most cases, there are regular monthly or bi-monthly meetings when it comes to these type support groups. In doing so, it is hoped that through dialogue with those whom have embraced an alternative identity as well as those whom are still having difficulty accepted a loved one whom has come out as a part of the LGBTQ+ community.

By supporting LGBTQ individuals, family, friends and allies, the organizational goal of PFLAG is to help build and create a more open and accepting society at large. While the exercises in the meetings are meant to provide awareness as to different situations, individuals currently experiencing the same or similar situation can also acquire answers in an anonymous manner.

PFLAG San Francisco now provides services to nearly 100 families and welcomes visitors to meetings. Still, it can often be difficult to receive individualized attention within such a large group while going through the grieving process. As such, those grieving the loss of a family member or friend due to a hate crime or suicide might find it more comforting to start out in a smaller more localized group before attending a PFLAG meeting in the city.

Some recent topics have included gay/straight alliances in public schools, religious schools and the challenges faced by lgbtq+ students and election concerns. In most cases, there will be a guidebook provided which the organization has published to help individuals better understand various risks to those in the community and how to live the best life ever in face of adversity.

PFLAG is a national organization with 503c3 tax exempt status. As such, any donations made to the group are tax deductible. The organization also provides a number of opportunities for people to volunteer and help when it comes to events such as organizing a float or group for marching in an annual pride parade. Whereas, others whom are trained to do so, can provide one-on-one peer counseling sessions with individuals on an ongoing basis.




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