About Us
Bolingbrook Pride: Suburban Roots, Lasting Impact
Founded in 2018, Bolingbrook Pride is proud to be one of the oldest suburban Pride organizations in Illinois (alongside our friends at Aurora Pride). Since our very first Picnic & Puppies event, we’ve been committed to creating safe, visible, and affirming spaces for LGBTQ+ individuals and families across the southwest suburbs.
​
We are advocates, not activists - believers in the power of conversation, education, and compassion to open hearts and expand understanding. Our approach is rooted in bridge-building, not division, because we know that real acceptance begins when people feel seen, heard, and connected.
​
Our mission is simple but powerful: to foster inclusion, unity, and love, especially during times when LGBTQ+ individuals are being targeted, misunderstood, or silenced. We serve people of all ages, identities, backgrounds, and beliefs, and we welcome dialogue with those still learning.
​
Bolingbrook is a vibrant and diverse community, and we’re proud to reflect that spirit in everything we do. By collaborating with other LGBTQ+ organizations, schools, youth groups, families, and faith communities, we’re working to reduce isolation, elevate supportive voices, and provide the tools for deeper understanding.
​
Research from the Family Acceptance Project (2009) shows that LGBTQ+ youth from unsupportive families are over 8 times more likely to experience serious mental health challenges. That’s why we focus on non-punitive education and family-centered outreach—to help communities grow in empathy and keep young people safe, affirmed, and alive.
​
At Bolingbrook Pride, we believe that everyone deserves to live authentically and love freely, without fear. When you support our work, you’re not just backing a picnic or a parade, you’re investing in a movement grounded in care, courage, and community.
​
Together, we’re building a future where no one feels like they have to hide who they are. And we’re doing it the only way we know how: with open minds, open hearts, and a whole lot of puppies.
We believe all people are equal, everyone can embrace who they are, can love who they choose, can define their own future, and working together, can change the world.
Our Mission
Bolingbrook Pride is a volunteer-led organization rooted in community. We work to create safe, visible, and affirming spaces for LGBTQ+ individuals and families in the southwest suburbs through inclusive events, non-punitive education, and collaboration with local partners. Ultimately, our mission is to build connection, increase understanding, and ensure that everyone feels seen, supported, and valued.community for all.
Our Vision
We envision a future where LGBTQ+ individuals and families in every suburb are celebrated, protected, and empowered—living openly in communities that embrace diversity, uphold equity, and ensure belonging for all.