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Mission & History
Mission
Affinity's mission is to provide comprehensive services and a safe space on the southside of Chicago for lesbians and lesbigay youth of African descent. The scope of our efforts is also to provide a supportive environment for bisexual women, transgender persons, lesbians of color, our families, friends, and other supporters. We ask that all constituents respect that some of our activities and events include forums that are open to all, and some that are only open to those of African descent. We provide and promote services to meet existing and emerging needs related to health, advocacy, education, racism, sexism, and homophobia. Our fundamental commitment is to facilitate wellness within and among these groups and to contribute to the national knowledge base regarding African American lesbians, bisexual and transgender women. Organizational History Affinity is a not-for-profit grassroots organization that has been serving Chicago's black lesbian and bisexual women's community for 15 years. Building upon the dedication of the founding members, Affinity has expanded into an institution that serves the entire Chicagoland and surrounding community. Historical elements of our work evolved out of Affinity's need to provide visibility, empowerment, and leadership for black lesbians Affinity has utilized a combination of creativity, community collaborations, educational and cultural expertise, to build an organization that continues to evolve to meet the needs of women in our community. The organization has grown by participating in and maintainin ad campaigns, targeted marketing, web presence, conferences, forums, and by joining in solidarity with movements and initiatives around the country. Since 1998, Affinity has received funding from both local and national foundations, including: Alphawood Foundation: www.alphawoodfoundation.org Honors and Recognitions since 1998:
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