Oak Park Area Lesbian and Gay Association
Since its establishment in 1989, OPALGA ( the Oak Park Area Lesbian and Gay Association) is one of the largest community-based, multi-purpose lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered membership organizations in Illinois. Boasting membership not only from Oak Park, River Forest, Berwyn, Forest Park and Brookfield but also from surrounding suburbs and Chicago proper. An ever growing number of organizations and businesses are joining OPALGA as organizational members who wish to keep abreast of LGBT community activities.
Diverse from its inception, OPALGA has strived to provide leadership and direction in three separate arenas; group-based support for person's questioning or exploring their sexual orientation, political activism to promote and insure non-discrimination in the community and cultural expression unique to the LGBTQ community. To that end, the organization has been an important presence to countless individuals who have sought shelter and support, creative expression allowing their voice to be heard or a launching pad to initiate public reform.
Our Programs
- OPALGA sponsors and produces many cultural events aimed at the Oak Park area community including cultural festivals, monthly Coffee House Soirees gallery & theatre outings and a literary publication, Peripheral Visions;
- OPALGA hosts monthly potlucks where members and guests enjoy each others' company and bring canned goods for local food pantries;
- OPALGA interacts with local community organizations to provide diversity and anti-hate public forums;
- OPALGA provides education, outreach, and training for our members and to various area organizations and groups;
- OPALGA provides direct services for youth and young adults to improve their well being through our drop-in center, HIV education and prevention programs, and informational resources. Our youth programs are designed and overseen by a professional director. Attendees are drawn from over 35 suburban communities and Chicago's west side.
- OPALGA produces a monthly newsletter, Empower, which is our primary vehicle for communicating with our membership.
