"The mission of the Illinois Safe Schools Alliance (the Alliance) is to promote safety, support and healthy development for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) youth, in Illinois schools and communities, through advocacy, education, youth organizing and research."

"We are a positive and supportive group for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, and our Allies of Macomb, IL and the surrounding area. We come together in fellowship and friendship, to reach out and make a positive impact for one another. We seek to be the friend and confidant we all need, wished we had, or always longed to have. All ages are welcome to join the group as well as non-residents of Macomb, IL."

"Since its first year, the LGBT*QA Resource Center has made substantial progress in creating an inclusive environment for LGBT*QA individuals on the Western Illinois campus. Since its inception the LGBT*QA Resource Center has provided campus-wide programming, Safe Space Training, a cozy LGBT*QA Lounge, and spaces to engaging the Western Illinois University community in dialogue about LGBT*QA topics. Throughout the academic year, the LGBT*QA Resource Center will be sponsoring and co-sponsoring a variety of programs such as Trans* Week, Camp OUT, Pride Week, Lavender Graduation, and many more!"

"We are a nonsectarian, nonprofit social justice organization that advances justice for Black LGBTQ+ people across Chicagoland through empowerment, education, and entertainment."
Also: "The Lighthouse Foundation is raising money for its Black Queer Mutual Aid Fund, which will give out $100 micro-grants to Black LGBTQ people in need in light of the COVID-19 pandemic." (from an article on blockclubchicago.org)

"The Center for the Study of Women, Gender and Sexuality offers a variety of programs, including an undergraduate major, undergraduate minors and certificates, graduate certificates, general education courses, and interdisciplinary courses. Check out all of undergraduate and graduate programs. Also, learn more about how a background in Women's, Gender and Sexuality Studies will benefit you both personally and professionally."

Specifically intended for students of Northern Illinois University

"OUT! An LGBTQIA support group meets every other Thursday evening from 6-7 and is family and ally friendly." OUT! was founded by Angela Cousins and Reverand Sue Harrington in August of 2018. Angela and her husband John are the parents of 3 lovely children, one of whom is transgender. Reverand Harrington identifies as a gay women and is raising 2 beautiful grandaughters. When searching for LGBTQIA support groups we found that all were either in urban areas far from Canton or were targeting teens and young adults and may not be appropriate for families with younger children. Needing support and wanting to find families and persons like us, we formed OUT! as a support group that is family friendly and open to children and allies. We hope to provide much needed support to our LGBTQIA families in Canton and Fulton County, and in the process educate and promote acceptance.

WEEKLY DROP IN YOUTH GROUP TUESDAYS 6:30-9 FOR 12-20 YR OLDS, MONTHLY INDIVIDUAL AND FAMILY MTGS

This is a non-sectarian organization for people with or without religious backrounds. Meetings are for support, resources or a listening ear. LGBTQ+ are welcome along with allies/family members/spouses/anyone who wants to learn more. You can also arrange a one-on-one meeting with a member if you are nervous to go to a large meeting.

"PRISM is a support group for LGBTQ adults and youth, and those who love and support them. PRISM meets on the first and third Monday of the month at 6:30 pm. Everyone is welcome, with anonymity and grace."