Paula Bickel (she/her) is a passionate advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion, living authenticly, and family connection. As an ICF-Accredited ACC Coach, Paula specializes in supporting parents of gender-diverse children and adults navigating major life transitions. Drawing on her own experience as a mother of eight, she brings empathy and real-world understanding to her work, fostering safe, non-judgmental spaces where families and individuals can explore identity, strengthen communication, and thrive as their true selves.

She is committed to building bridges between generations and communities, and she believes deeply in the value of allyship and open dialogue. Outside of her coaching and advocacy, Paula enjoys backcountry backpacking, camping, and devouring audiobooks. She is honored to support the mission of Bloomington Rainbow Cafe and the families it serves.

My name is Madison Bazzani, you can also call me Maddie or Madds. I identify as a transgender woman using she/her pronouns, I am 38, soon to be 39 years old, and have been transitioning for a little over two and a half years. When I am not living in my trans joy, I love to shop, thrift, hike, cook, camp, play video games, go to concerts, and socialize. I enjoy coordinating events for my local trans community including an annual pool party, and other affirming experiences that we can share in our joy. 

I currently live in South St. Paul with my partner and my 2 kids who I have joint custody. At work I help those with disabilities as a professional care planner and have worked in this field for over 13 years with both children and adults. I think that I come with the perspective of a person that is in transition, a parent, a professional, and I too was queer kid. Being able to just be present with other queer kids where they are at in their journey is a privilege. I hope I can make a difference like the rest of the community that it will take to raise a child that identifies as queer. 

Siri Strommen (she/her). I am the mother of two fantastic teens. I am an author, yoga teacher, singer/songwriter, Lutheran pastor at Atonement in Bloomington, and LGBTQ+ ally. I am passionate that all people feel safe and loved just as they are.

I am Jessica Thornton and I use she/her pronouns. I am a passionate advocate for equity and inclusion, proudly serving as a commissioner on the Bloomington Human Rights Commission. I am a mom of two teenage sons. One of my sons is transgender. As the mom of a transgender son, I am deeply committed to creating safe, supportive spaces for LGBTQ+ youth and families. Through my volunteer work and personal advocacy, I work to uplift voices, build community, and stand up for the dignity and rights of all people.

In my spare time, my youngest son keeps me busy with his tennis lessons and matches. I love watching him play. I enjoy staying active and doing peloton workouts. I also love spending time with my husband and dog. 

My name is Kirstin Jones and my pronouns are she/her.  I am married with two adult, neurodiverse children.  I work fulltime as an engineer here in Bloomington.  I am also the facilitator for my church's Reconciling in Christ time, an immensely rewarding experience.  I believe strongly in the need for safe, trustworthy spaces where people can be their authentic selves without fear of judgement or shame, and it is a great privilege to be a part of creating such spaces.  In my free time, I enjoy science fiction and fantasy, fiber arts, backyard astronomy, video games, and time with the dogs.