About PFLAG.

​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. 
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Established in 1973

PFLAG National was founded in 1973 by a parent, Jeanne Manford. Attending a parade with her gay son, Jeanne won the hearts of many gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people who begged her to speak with their parents. Jeanne held the first PFLAG Support Group meeting on March 11, 1973 at a church in Greenwich Village.  For over four decades, PFLAG has provided support to families and allies who are in need.  
PFLAG National currently has over 400 chapters and 200,000 supporters crossing multiple generations of American families 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., the National Board of Directors and 13 volunteer Regional Directors.
More on OUR STORY...

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 LGBTQ.
 
Education for ourselves and others, about the unique issues and challenges facing people who are LGBTQ. 
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Advocacy in our communities to change attitudes and create policies and laws that achieve full equality for people who are LGBTQ​+.

PFLAG Claremont is a registered 501(c)(3). Our tax ID is 85-3130588.

Our Leadership Team

MITCH STEIN (HE, HIM)
PRESIDENT

Coach Mitch is a gay man and local business owner. He grew up in Covina, CA and currently resides in Pomona, CA with his two daughters. Living in the area for most of his life, he knows the struggles that the LGBTQIA+ community face in the area. Mitch was inspired to join PFLAG Claremont after reading a story about a young Claremont High School student, Chloe, who passed in 2021. Mitch dedicates his time as President in her memory.​

david estudiante (he, HIM)
Education committee

Growing up in Northwest Arkansas as a biracial, gay man I lacked community. I wish PFLAG would have been a part of my coming out story and a resource to help my family. I am committed to giving back to my community and specifically others who are struggling to embrace their queer identity or loved one's who are looking for more information and ways to support their LGBTQ+ folks. From community grows family and chosen family is how I found my way. Through PFLAG Claremont, I hope to do the same for others.

Kathy Goodson (She, HER)
secretary

As a parent of a queer kiddo, my goal is to create brave spaces for parents and community members  to learn, love and support the LGBTQ+ community. 

john lewallen (HE, HIM)
PR social media

PFLAG helps so many. Frequently, it's a lifeline just when someone needs it desperately. I gave my assistance to Pasadena PFLAG for many years and now I am thrilled to help with Claremont PFLAG. I have 30+ years experience as a designer, art director, and communications specialist.  

Alexandra Oliva (SHE, HER)
Education committee 

I am the proud daughter of an gay man who came out much later in life. With the establishment of The PFLAG Claremont chapter I'm committed to normalizing variance in family dynamics and advocating for socially and economically marginalized youth in neighboring cities. I hope to introduce PFLAG, its values and resources to as many people as possible!

paige piontkowsky (She, HER)
VP & fundraising 

As a queer woman, I am so thankful for an organization like PFLAG. I am excited for PFLAG to be in Claremont to provide community, education, and support to families. My hope is that families utilize PFLAG as a resource to navigate difficult conversations and move forward together. ​

Pharalyn Robinson (SHE, HER)
Community Outreach

Family, chosen and given, is deeply important to me. I'm proud to say that I have 14 niblings (gender-neutral for niece/nephew) and 2 great niblings. I'm passionate about supporting youth, like my niblings, and the important adults in their lives around issues of sexual orientation and gender identity. I think that kind of support would have been impactful for me and my family when I came out. I want to be a part of providing that support for others.

KAREN VANCE (She, HER)
Group FACILITATor

My child transitioned, and affirmed himself as a gay male 15 years ago!  My parent support group meant everything to me. My sister proudly married her wife 7 years ago. My niece married her wife this summer. As a retired educator, I know that information, community, and love provide a path forward for all of us. 

contact us

GENERAL QUESTIONS
​info@pflagclaremont.com

MEMBERSHIP
membership@pflagclaremont.com

FUNDRAISING
​donate@pflagclaremont.com

COMMUNITY OUTREACH
outreach@pflagclaremont.com

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PFLAG Claremont corporate supporters

If your business or organization would like to support our mission and vision in our community please contact us to find out ways you can be involved. info@pflagclaremont.com