Peer Support is the foundation stone of PFLAG. If you are just starting to learn about what it means to be lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender – or are a family member or friend of someone who is – you may have hundreds of questions to ask. One of the things PFLAG Portland has learned in its 40 years that everyone’s situation is different, and the best way to get answers tailored to your needs is to talk to someone at PFLAG Portland. There are several ways to do this:
Join a Support Circle at one of our Chapter Meetings
Come to our monthly Chapter Meetings. You’ll find a safe space where you can learn, share, or simply be yourself in a supportive and friendly environment filled with LGBTQ persons, family members, friends, and allies of all ages. We’ll be there at the welcome table to greet you.
The chapter meeting has a little something for everybody. Here’s a typical agenda:
- Announcements to keep you in sync with the LGBTQ community;
- An entertaining and informative program on a topic of the day;
- An opportunity to socialize;
- Support Groups where you can share your story or just listen to others – the heart of PFLAG.
Please note: PFLAG is not affiliated with any religion or faith community, but often partners with supportive faith communities. Our in-person Chapter Meeting hosts are actively welcoming faith communities that support LGBTQ individuals and their families and have graciously donated the use of their space to us. Meetings are held in community meeting rooms, welcoming and open spaces free of religious iconography. We recognize that for many in our community entering a place of worship is a painful experience. If that's the case for you, we're here to help - give us a call or email.
Join a PFLAG Connects Online Support Circle
Wherever you live - Eastside, Westside, Downtown, out of town - you can connect with your PFLAG community online at one of our PFLAG Connects Online Support Circles. Here, you'll find all the familiar PFLAG unconditional love and support, just in a more convenient online form.
PFLAG Portland Support Circles are offered twice a month. Check out the Events listing on our homepage or our Events Calendar page for details.
For more information on how our online Support Circles work and how to register to attend one, visit our PFLAG Supports page.
Get Personalized Support
Sometimes it's inconvenient or just plain uncomfortable to share your concerns and questions in a Support Circle. Contact us and request an online Private Circle with a PFLAG Volunteer. We'll do our best to meet you where you are.
Helpline
Call our helpline, 503-232-7676 - for non-urgent information and private Circle requests only - and a volunteer will respond within 24-48 hours.
Drop us a line at info@pflagpdx.org.
Independent Study
We also understand that many prefer to research their questions in private. For those folks we offer an extensive knowledgebase with links to service providers and other resources.