Originally created as a support group for parents and friends of lesbians and gays, its focus has broadened over the years as new needs were identified.
Most chapters meet at least once a month, and many also have social events between meetings.
All welcome parents, families, friends, gays, lesbians, bisexuals, transgender people, and those questioning their sexuality. In all cases, the identity of those attending the meetings and the content that is discussed at meetings is kept confidential. Some members and guests may be in the closet for personal or professional reasons, and members respect their desire for confidentiality. For example, some larger chapters might break into special interest groups during the discussion time. There might be a group for support, another specifically for youth, another that discusses education issues, etc.