PASCO, Wash. – Nearly 100 participants joined the third annual ‘Walk and Roll‘ fundraiser organized by the Benton and Franklin County PFLAG chapter. The event featured a three-kilometer walk along the Columbia River.
Despite the gloomy weather, participants embraced the event’s message of community and support. The advocacy was evident, as attendees wore rainbow attire, spoke up for loved ones, and accessed necessary resources.
Patti Jones, president of Benton and Franklin County’s PFLAG chapter, shared her thoughts on the community that their organization has fostered.
“The people are so welcoming and they’re so friendly and helpful,” she said. “The support that you get has been amazing and they’re so open. I think that’s one of my favorite things, is that people are free to ask questions.”
Community outreach director Kai Leigha Dygert emphasized the event’s focus on important issues.
“This event really targets, bringing support, education, advocacy for the awareness of LGBT youth. Suicide prevention, bullying prevention and self-harm awareness,” Dygert stated. “Especially now more than ever, those three issues have become something that is just, you know, so much more of an issue in our local community.”
Dygert and Jones both discussed their motivations for joining PFLAG.
“Being able to find community, have a sense of my own community and like a place to help people explore who they are, question their place in the world, find like-minded people,” Dygert said.
“And so I’m really thankful to be a part of it.” Jones added. “There’s a need in the community that I can help be a part of and make a genuine difference. And within the community, being a part of the PFLAG board has been absolutely the best experience. I can see where I’m making a difference.”
For those who missed the event, PFLAG is planning a busy month in June with more activities. More information can be found on their website.
