Molina Healthcare of Illinois Presents $10K Grant to the LGBTQ+ Center of Lake County to Increase Capacity for Creating Safe Spaces and Education Around LGBTQ+ Community
CHICAGO, September 17, 2024 – Molina Healthcare of Illinois (“Molina”), in collaboration with The MolinaCares Accord, presented a $10,000 grant to the LGBTQ+ Center of Lake County in support of programming of their peer-led support group and expanding SafeZone Training.
The grant increases the capacity of SafeZone Training – an LGBTQ+ cultural competency program aimed at enhancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in private businesses, nonprofits, educational institutions, and other organizations. Nearly 50% of LGBTQ+ individuals are not out at work, and 46% of LGBTQ+ youth feel unsafe in their schools. September is Suicide Prevention Month, serving as a reminder of the unique challenges facing the LGBTQ+ community. Of the U.S. population that identifies as LGBTQ+, 39% reported having a mental illness in the past year.
“The LGBTQ+ Center of Lake County is grateful to partner with Molina to promote inclusiveness and improve allyship with the LGBTQ+ community in Illinois,” said Kristal Larson, executive director of the LGBTQ+ Center of Lake County. “By supporting the ‘For the Love of the Queers’ support group and expanding our SafeZone Training program, we hope to make our community an even safer, more inclusive environment for those who identify as LGBTQ+.”
About Molina Healthcare of Illinois
Molina Healthcare of Illinois has been providing government-funded, quality health care since 2013. The Company serves members through Medicaid and Medicare-Medicaid programs throughout Illinois. Through its locally operated health plans, Molina Healthcare, Inc., a Fortune 500 company, provides managed health care services under the Medicaid and Medicare programs, and through state insurance marketplaces. For more information about Molina Healthcare of Illinois, visit MolinaHealthcare.com.
About The MolinaCares Accord
Established by Molina Healthcare, Inc., The MolinaCares Accord oversees a community investment platform created to improve the health and well-being of disadvantaged populations by funding meaningful, measurable, and innovative programs and solutions that improve health, life, and living in local communities. The MolinaCares Accord funds such measures through the Molina Healthcare Charitable Foundation, a 501(c)(3) established in 2020 by Molina Healthcare, Inc.
About the LGBTQ+ Center of Lake County
The LGBTQ+ Center Lake County is an open and affirming environment for people of all sexual orientations and gender identities. We provide support, education, resources, and advocacy to achieve a stronger and healthier world for LGBTQIA+ people and allies. With collaborative networking in Northern Illinois, we will empower our community to provide a safe space to support and celebrate LGBTQ+ Pride, diversity, equity, visibility and community building.
###