Iowa Pride Network (IPN) was founded by two college students in June 2003 after recognizing the need to reduce the isolation and harassment that so many lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) students’ face in Iowa. The vision was to build a network of Gay-Straight Alliances (GSA), educate students on their rights, offer direct support and leadership opportunities, and ultimately help students change the society in which they live.
Now a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization governed by youth and adults, IPN is empowering youth to fight homophobia and transphobia in high schools and colleges. We work to improve the quality of life among LGBT students by reducing isolation through a statewide network of GSA clubs and coalitions and by providing leadership opportunities and organizing projects centered on social justice.