Contents
1. Our Story
2. Our Vision
3. Our Mission
4. Our Chapter
5. Our Impact
6. Our Board
7. Our Values

Group of folx holding the PFLAG banner at Mid Columbia Pride 2014

Our Story

Founded in 1973 with the simple act of a mother publicly supporting her gay son, PFLAG is the nation’s largest family and ally organization.

Uniting people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) with families, friends, and allies, PFLAG is committed to advancing equality through its mission of support, education, and advocacy. The Benton Franklin Chapter is just one of 400 PFLAG chapters in major urban centers, small cities, and rural areas in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. This vast grassroots network is cultivated, resourced, and serviced by PFLAG National, located in Washington, D.C.

Our Vision

PFLAG envisions a world where diversity is celebrated and all people are respected, valued, and affirmed of their sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression.

Our Mission

By meeting people where they are and collaborating with others, PFLAG realizes its vision through:

  • Support for families, allies and people who are LGBTQIA2+
  • Education for ourselves and others about the unique issues and challenges facing people who are LGBTQIA2+
  • Advocacy in our communities to change attitudes and create policies and laws that achieve full equality for people who are LGBTQIA2+

Our Chapter

PFLAG Benton Franklin is the local chapter in the Richland, Pasco, Kennewick area of Washington also referred to as the Tri-Cities. Our chapter received it’s 501(c)(3) status in May 1994. Since then there have been many changes in our area and much progress made.

In January 2011, a revitalization took place after the chapter went dormant for a while. Since then, we’ve initiated a variety of community programs, including meetups and support groups, advocated for students’ rights to have GSA’s in local schools, hosted various LGBTQ+ panels, as well as educational events and trainings geared toward suicide prevention and anti-bullying.

We are comprised of all volunteers; people who love serving our community and making a difference to the those in it. We are very thankful to be a part of the wave of change happening.

Our Impact

Regardless of how you identify in terms of sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression, PFLAG is here to support you and your family on your journey of discovery.

  • PFLAG provides peer-to-peer support services within your community
  • We offer free staff inclusivity trainings to local companies & services by request
  • We sponsor and table at local events, including Tri-Cities Pride Festival
  • PFLAG works with local schools to help make them safer for LGBTQIA2+ students
  • Our website offers connection to a wide variety of resources that provide support for those in need

Our Board

Executive Board

Chairperson
Patti Jones (she/her)
Vice Chairperson
A’isha Martin (she/her)
Secretary
Diandra Robison (she/her)
Treasurer
Savannah Sanchez (she/they)
Communications Director
Meghan Ryan (she/they)
Community Outreach Director
Skye Emerson (he/him)
Volunteer Director
Kim Fowler (she/her)

Committee Chairs

Fundraising Chair
Jason O’Leary (he/they)
Youth Night Lead
Meghan Ryan (she/they)
Youth Night Co-Lead
Julia Walker (she/they)
Family Support Night Lead
Alicia Boyd (she/her)
Family Support Night Co-Lead
Leigh Terrass (she/her)
SAFE Socials Lead
Madison Jennings (she/her)
Proud Playdates Lead
Estefani Rangel (she/her)

Our Values

We’re creating a caring, just, and affirming world for the LGBTQ+ community. These are our core values:

  • Accountability
    • We hold ourselves and each other responsible in our work. We communicate transparently, respond timely, set clear boundaries, and take ownership of our actions.
  • Bravery
    • We are courageous in word and deed. We advocate boldly, remain steadfast in the face of adversity, make space for vulnerability, and meet people where they are to have the challenging conversations.
  • Community and Collaboration
    • We lead with love. We center our community, listen with respect and compassion, and derive strength from the collective power of our unified organization.
  • Inclusivity and Belonging
    • We ensure PFLAG is a place where everyone belongs. We actively listen, engage with cultural humility, and ensure that the power of diverse people, cultures, and stories are respected and woven through all areas of our work.
  • Growth
    • We evolve to ensure PFLAG is strong and current. We approach our work with curiosity, broaden our skills, learn from our mistakes as well as our successes, and adapt to meet the needs of an ever-changing world.