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With lifetimes of myths and misinformation about homosexuality, many people don't know where to turn when they find out a family member or friend is gay. PFLAG offers a non-judgmental outlet that can help you realize you are not alone. Whether you are a gay/lesbian/bisexual/transgender (LGBT) person or a friend or family member, you are welcome at meetings. We encourage LGBT persons to attend meetings, both because parents can sometimes hear better from someone else's child, and the child can more fully understand their parent's feelings. The goal is for everyone to grow in understanding.

PFLAG SUPPORTS FAMILIES

PFLAG is an organization dedicated to family values. We work to keep families together through education, acceptance, understanding and support. We promote truth and education about gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender loved ones.

You have many sources of support. Read the Stories in our Scrapbook. Get some of the books from our Recommended Reading list.

Patti and Jeff Ellis, a conservative Christian couple in Georgia, have created a site that deals with their own journey since their son came out to them in 1997. Click here to read about their struggles to cope and understand.

PFLAG MEETINGS

Our meetings consist of a confidential sharing time where parents and families receive support and education. There is always time for questions. No one attending should feel pressured to speak up in the group. There is a lot to be gained simply by attending and listening. At our meetings we have available a lending library that contains many books and videos.

OTHER SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS

For faith-based support, click here.

Indiana Youth Group (IYG) is a non-profit youth services organization for self-identified gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and questioning young people ages 12 to 24. Its mission is to provide a safe place, confidential environment and services which foster self-esteem, resiliency, and positive decision-making skills.

The Straight Spouse Network is an international organization of heterosexual spouses or partners, current and former, of gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender mates. Members provide confidential support and resource information.

Colage is an international organization specifically supporting young people with gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender parents.

Like Our Family: Ordinary folks, extraordinary families. Gather, talk, hang-out, play, eat, enjoy. Kids discover families just like our family. Here it's easy to see that love, not gender, not blood, but love, really does make a family.

The Bisexual Resource Center is an international organization providing education about and support for bisexual and progressive issues.

TransYouth Family Advocates (TYFA) are parents, family, friends and caring adults dedicated to educating and raising public awareness about the medical and cultural challenges faced by children with gender variant and gender questioning identities and the families who love them.

Indiana Transgender Rights Advocacy Alliance works for freedom of gender expression and the right to gender self-determination for all.

Indianapolis Keshet Parent & Family Connection are parents and family members of LGBTQ Jews who come together to transform the Jewish community through peer support, public events, and advocating for institutional change. Members come from all streams of the Jewish world, have children of all genders and sexual orientations, and are driven by personal journeys of struggle and celebration. Meetings are held 4 times a year and membership is free.

By Grace: A support group for family members of gays, lesbians and bisexuals that meets monthly on the south side of Indianapolis at St. Timothy's Episcopal Church, 2601 Thompson Road, on the second Saturday of each month from 10:00 to noon. Sessions are facilitated by a licensed clinical worker.

DignityUSA works for respect and justice for all gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender persons in the Catholic Church and the world through education, advocacy and support.

Fortunate Families: Catholic parents who love and affirm their lesbian daughters and gay sons are Fortunate Families. This website will help Catholic parents of gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender children find support and resources and a place to share their story with other Fortunate Families.

The Intersex Society of North America (ISNA) is devoted to systemic change to end shame, secrecy, and unwanted genital surgeries for people born with an anatomy that someone decided is not standard for male or female.

The IN Coalition Against Domestic Violence provides comprehensive services for anyone experiencing domestic violence, regardless of sexual orientation.

Each person who attends Indy PFLAG meetings has the right to expect, and the responsibility to extend, openness and confidentiality. PFLAG meetings are a safe place to share feelings and discuss problems. The identities of all persons and what is said at the meetings and during Help-line calls are kept strictly confidential.

WHAT TO EXPECT

CONFIDENTIALITY POLICY

Suicide Prevention Coalition

If you - or someone you know - are having thoughts about suicide, call 1-800-SUICIDE (784-2433). Calls are connected to a certified crisis center nearest your location. Services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Trevor Project

The Trevor Project was established to promote tolerance for gay and questioning teenagers, and to aid in suicide prevention among that group. They have a 24-hour, toll-free anonymous suicide prevention hotline for gay and questioning teens.

1-866-488-4386.

SUICIDE PREVENTION