D-UP (Defend Yourself) Game Night is more than just games — it’s about building community, connection, and empowerment. 🎲✨

Join us for a free evening of fun, laughter, and friendly competition while creating space for meaningful conversations and support. D-UP focuses on bringing people together to strengthen relationships, encourage self-expression, and foster resilience in the face of life’s challenges.

This event is open to all and designed to remind us that defending yourself also means celebrating yourself, uplifting your community, and having a good time while doing it.

Explore how society views power as it relates to social identities, including race, wealth, gender, skin color, and more.

Art as Therapy is a free, LGBTQ+-affirming art therapy session designed to nurture healing, creative expression, and community connection. Participants are invited to gather in a supportive, inclusive space where art becomes a pathway to resilience and shared empowerment.

Rooted in Resilience is a free, LGBTQ+-affirming art therapy session designed to nurture healing, creative expression, and community connection. Participants are invited to gather in a supportive, inclusive space where art becomes a pathway to resilience and shared empowerment.

The FY26 d-UP: Defend Yourself! kickoff is a community dinner and discussion focused on wellness, prevention, and connection. The evening will feature the launch of revised prevention materials, on-site HIV testing and referrals, and opportunities for meaningful dialogue over a shared meal.

Getting to Zero Illinois is coming to Kankakee on Friday, August 22nd for a free community event focused on HIV prevention, care, and health equity. All are welcome-free dinner will be shared! This evening will include food, community voices, and open conversation on building a healthier Illinois.

Join the community for They Beach—a vibrant celebration for trans, nonbinary, and genderqueer folks. Bring your beach gear, look for the Trans/Enby/Poly flags, and enjoy an afternoon of sun, music, and connection by the lake. This free event is all about joy, visibility, and creating affirming spaces where everyone can feel safe, seen, and celebrated.

Rooted in Resilience is a free, LGBTQ+-affirming art therapy session designed to nurture healing, creative expression, and community connection. Participants are invited to gather in a supportive, inclusive space where art becomes a pathway to resilience and shared empowerment.