ABOUT US

Building moments of connection in Chicagoland

At Out With Purpose, our welcoming mindset and passionate spirit inspire us to create inclusive experiences for our community.
Learn more about the history of the organization by watching this short video.
OUR STORY

Creating vibrant spaces and experiences for 35 years

Established in 1989, we are one of the largest LGBTQIA2S+ membership organizations in Illinois. Our diverse membership includes individuals and families in Chicago’s near-west suburbs, Chicago proper and beyond. Members and non-members are welcome at our events.

Our mission is to build connection and community among LGBTQ+ people and allies.

What we do

Host dozens of social activities, including monthly potlucks, playdates for LGBTQ+ families, group outings to fun events and restaurants, marching in local parades, our scholarship gala, and more
Volunteer in the local community, including Donut Day, Beyond Hunger, the Greater Chicago Food Depository, and Township school supply collection events
Award scholarship funds to local high school LGBTQIA2S+ and allied student seniors and past award recipients
Advocate in local community human rights forums, rallies, and parades
Educate the public by providing information on LGBTQ+ issues and resources at events like Oak Park’s Day in Our Village and our transgender education events

The Oak Park Lesbian and Gay Association: Stories from the History-Making First Decade

This book chronicles the evolution of OPALGA+ from its grassroots beginnings in the early 1980s to its development into a leading LGBTQIA2S+ advocacy and community organization. Through personal reflections, historic milestones and archival documents, it highlights the group’s role in advancing local protections, building inclusive community programs, supporting youth and families, and shaping LGBTQ+ life in Oak Park and beyond.

Quick links to various sections are available in the Table of Contents—just click the red entries to jump to a page!

Our accomplishments

Provided over $280,000 in scholarships to help LGBTQIA2S+ students pursue higher education, including $50,000 in 2024.
Helped amend Oak Park’s Human Rights Ordinance to bar employment and housing discrimination (1989).
Helped secure Domestic Partnership Benefits for Oak Park Village employees (1994).
Helped secure Oak Park’s Domestic Partnership Registry for same-sex couples — a first-ever achievement in Illinois, and since used as a model for other communities (1997).
Served as a Gay Games VII sponsor and hosted events in Oak Park (2006).
Worked to educate local school administrators to establish a Human Dignity policy for LGBTQ+ school employees (2009).
Rallied locally and in Springfield for the passage of civil unions and marriage equality in Illinois (2013).
Received numerous awards and village recognitions for community service.

The Out With Purpose Board of Directors

Our board members help shape our strategic direction, support inclusive programming, guide our scholarship and outreach efforts, and ensure Out With Purpose remains a safe, welcoming space for all.
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Vicki Byard

Secretary (2026-’27)

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Wendy Cole

At-Large Member (2026-’27)

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Jayne Furlong

At-Large Member (2026-’27)

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Lynn Griffith

OPALGA+ Board Co-Chair, 1st term At-Large Member (2026-’27)

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Mary Kate Hageman

1st term At-Large Member (2025-’26)

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Rylan Martin

At-Large Member (2025-’26)

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Bob Personett

At-Large Member (2026-’27)

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Emily Radamis

1st Term At-Large Member (2026-’27)

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Kevin Roy

1st Term At-Large Member (2026-’27)

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Cas Scaman

OPALGA+ Board Co-Chair (2024-’26)

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Leah Textor

Treasurer (2023-’26)

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Tim Thomas

1st term At-Large Member (2025-’26)

JOIN OUR BOARD

Help shape the future of LGBTQIA2S+ inclusion and community in Chicagoland

Are you passionate about LGBTQ+ advocacy, equity, and community building? Do you believe in creating spaces where everyone—regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, or gender expression—can thrive? We invite you to bring your voice, experience, and talents to the Out With Purpose Board.

Serving on the board is more than a volunteer role — it’s a chance to make a meaningful impact on the lives of LGBTQ+ individuals and families throughout Chicagoland.

We’re actively seeking diverse perspectives from people of all identities, backgrounds and lived experiences. Whether you bring nonprofit expertise, a passion for social justice, skills in finance, fundraising or community organizing, or simply a deep commitment to our mission, there’s a place for you at our table. Board members serve a two-year term, attend monthly meetings, and participate in events and committee work. Orientation and mentorship are provided—no prior board experience needed.

Our bylaws

The Out With Purpose bylaws guide and govern the property, business and affairs of our organization.

Out With Purpose board & community meetings

AWARDS

Honoring our dedicated members & leaders

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ABOUT THE REBRAND

Our diverse past inspires a more inclusive future

In 1989, OPLGA was established to advocate for protections for lesbians and gays in various policies and institutions. Our name, structure and programming have evolved over the past 35 years. Our commitment to uplifting our LGBTQ+ community remains steadfast. Today, Out WithPurpose draws on our vibrant history to grow ever-more inclusive and representative of our Chicagoland community.