University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown
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Johnstown Chapter of PFLAG (Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays)

(The following information is contained in the PFLAG of Johnstown brochure).

 

PFLAG Mission Statement

PFLAG promotes the health and well-being of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered persons, their families and friends through:

Support, to cope with an adverse society; Advocacy, to end discrimination and to secure civil rights; and Education, to promote understanding in the community.

PFLAG provides opportunity for dialogue about sexual orientation and gender identity, and acts to create a society that is healthy and respectful of human diversity.

PFLAG Johnstown

The Johnstown Chapter of PFLAG was formed by a handful of concerned parents.  Our ongoing mission is to provide parents, families, and friends of gay men, lesbians, bisexuals, and transgendered (GLBT) individuals in southwestern Pennsylvania a caring, resourceful support network that is based on honesty, trust, and respect for all people.  PFLAG Johnstown fulfills its mission through three primary activities:  Advocacy, Monthly Support Meetings, and Education.

Advocacy

PFLAG Johnstown's Advocacy Group addresses societal issues affecting our family members and friends.  Advocacy efforts are focused on making our chapter more proactive in terms of initiating and implementing projects to help ensure the safety and well-being of those who are part of the GLBT community.

Monthly Support Meetings

PFLAG Johnstown's meetings provide a safe, confidential, and supportive atmosphere for all participants, regardless of where they are on their journey.  Our monthly meeting is held on the third Thursday of every month at 7:00 p.m.  Each meeting includes a group sharing session, a refreshment break, and an educational program.  For more information about our monthly meeting, e-mail us at presidentflagjtown@yahoo.com.

Education

Our chapter is dedicated to providing information to our members about issues related to sexual orientation and gender identity.  We welcome opportunities to educate people in southwestern PA.  PFLAG Johnstown members have access to a well-stocked library (that includes books and educational videos).  We work closely with local, state, and national GLBT organizations on educational efforts surrounding sexual orientation and gender identity.

We're here to HELP

Although more people are becoming knowledgeable about sexual orientation and gender identity, our society continues to perpetuate misinformation about GLBT people - our sons, daughters, siblings, relatives, and friends.  PFLAG Johnstown is not willing to allow these distorted views to interfere with developing happy, loving relationships within our families.

PFLAG Johnstown is committed to providing emotional support and resources by helping GLBT people and their families and friends address issues surrounding sexual orientation, gender identity, and relationship.  We believe in strengthening family relationships, working towards a better understanding of sexual orientation and gender identity, and helping eliminate homophobia and stereotyping.  PFLG Johnstown welcomes your participation.

Contact a local PFLAG group for support and information:

Johnstown:  presidentpflagjtown@yahoo.com
                        http://www.pglagjtown.org

Pittsburgh:  412-833-4556       
                 pflagpgh@juno.com
                 http://www.pflagpgh.org

Washington:  724-288-2280

North Hills:      412-487-2529

Meeting Guidelines

  • Meetings address the challenges and feelings surrounding the relationships GLBT people have with their families.
  • Confidentiality is a top priority.
  • We speak in the first person - sharing our own experiences and feelings; ALL are respected.
  • We avoid making generalizations and instead express feelings, rather than opinions.
  • We offer support by sharing our own experiences, rather than giving advice.
  • Our goal is to be supportive, not confrontational.
  • Everyone is encouraged to participate verbally. Silence is acceptable for those who choose it.
  • Monopolizing is unfair to others who may wish to speak.  Sharing sessions are structured so that everyone is given a chance to participate.

Last Reviewed: February 13, 2008