The University of Florida values and promotes a supportive, accepting learning and working environment for everyone in the diverse University community. The FRIENDS Program provides a way for people to identify themselves as openly supportive of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Questioning, and Queer (LGBTQ) students, faculty, and staff and to educate themselves about LGBTQ issues and resources.
Register for a FRIENDS Ally Training now:
Download the list of Friends program participants.
Becoming a FRIEND
Anyone at the University of Florida can become a FRIEND. By becoming a FRIEND, you are sending the message to the campus community that you are supportive and understanding of the needs of LGBT people. Anyone who wishes to be a FRIEND must attend one of the FRIENDS workshops on LGBT issues and resources or demonstrate equivalent experience or training. Everyone who completes a FRIENDS workshop will receive a door/window placard and a button to display in your office, on your room door or on your backpack. The placard designates a “safe space” for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals and their allies. If you are interested in becoming a FRIEND fill out and return the Making New FRIENDS form so we can contact you concerning your interest in the program.
Becoming a Workshop Facilitator
The FRIENDS Program not only offers you the opportunity to educate yourself, but also to help educate others. The job of the Workshop Facilitators is to help coordinate and run the individual interactive workshops. Being a facilitator gives you the chance to educate yourself further on LGBT issues and to help make a positive change at the University of Florida through interactive discussions and activities. Facilitator positions are open to students, faculty, and staff and people of any identification. If you wish to apply as a facilitator, please fill out and return the Facilitator Application form. For more information on being a Workshop Facilitator please contact us.