KAILUA-KONA – It was a coming out celebration for the Kona/Big Island Chapter of PFLAG Friday night at My Bar as the nonprofit held its first fundraising party. ADVERTISING KAILUA-KONA – It was a coming out celebration for the Kona/Big
KAILUA-KONA – It was a coming out celebration for the Kona/Big Island Chapter of PFLAG Friday night at My Bar as the nonprofit held its first fundraising party.
The Day of the Dead theme was seen throughout the bar, with face painting available to anyone in need of a costume. A silent auction with items donated by area businesses raised funds for the new chapter.
As a local chapter of the national organization headquartered in Washington D.C., PFLAF Kona/Big Island receives support, materials and curriculum under its 501(c)(3) status. Scholarship opportunities are also available through the national organization.
PFLAG Kona/Big Island is a newly established chapter with a mission of educating the community, providing support to the members of the LGBT community and their allies, and advocating equality and an end to discrimination for all, according to chapter president Jeff Gourley. “We have two initial priorities at this time. One is to establish tandem support groups, one for LGBT individuals just ‘coming out’ or coming to terms with their sexual orientation as well as one for family, friends or other members of the community who identify as allies and are trying to support the community.”
PFLAG envisions a world where diversity is celebrated and all people are respected, valued and affirmed inclusive of their sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression.
There is an opportunity to provide curriculum in schools designed to address sexual harassment and discrimination or bullying based on sexual orientation. Similar education is available for businesses.
“We would eventually like to work in our schools,” said Gourley.
The organization’s priorities are guided by its members, however membership is not required to participate.
“We would like to see weekly support meetings and monthly family activities” Gourley continued. “The money we raise is going to be used to establish ourselves and get our website up and running.”
