Executive Summary

It was a special treat for our group at OUTstanding to be host to several parents and special guests on the evening of April 8th for a Parent Appreciation Reception. I'd like to extend special thanks to:

-David & Kathryn who set up such a nice spread of snacks and drinks, that helped to make everyone comfortable among their new friends.
-Shannon Kuster and Karla from the Amarillo Police Department spoke to the youth and parents about proper procedures for harassment on school property and other concerns.
-Elaine Vivens from Campfire USA sat in on the discussion, recognizing that many of the youth in their programs suffer from the isolation and depression imposed by questioning their orientation or gender identity and having no one to turn to.
-Barbara Whitton from St. Andrews Episcopal Church spoke briefly in hopes to encourage parents to find the place in their heart to love and support their children while struggling with their religious beliefs about homosexuality.
-Paul Brown, life coach was also listening in and has decided to offer his services to parents for free on behalf of OUTstanding.

It was an especially great experience for me because it was my mother's birthday. She drove all the way in from Shamrock Texas to attend the event and had lots of nice things to say. I'm glad everyone got to meet my mom, she's the greatest.

Parents of lgbt children young and old shared their stories of fear, faith, coming out for their kids and for themselves. There were parents of kids from schools all over Amarillo, Canyon, and Bushland (yes there are queers there too). Many of the parents seemed concerned about similar issues. Most of them asked what they could do to help make a difference. I hope some of them will consider attending PFLAG on the first Tuesdays of each month and together they can decide how they can make a difference.