Welcome To Lambda PTO The Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, & Transgender Employee Organization of the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office Who Is Lambda PTO? Lambda PTO is the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, & Transgender Employee Organization at the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office. Founded in 1994, Lambda PTO's purpose is to encourage and foster a positive work environment for all PTO employees, regardless of sexual orientation. Therefore, although the focus is primarily on GLBT issues, membership is open to all PTO employees. In July 1994, a few GLBT employees were invited to participate as a focus group for the Office of Civil Rights (OCR) at the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office (PTO). The focus group was to provide OCR with requested information, advice, and guidance on workplace issues relating to sexual orientation. At these meetings, it became immediately evident that there was a lack of any network within the PTO to provide support or information on workplace issues or social inclusion for employees of the sexual minority. An umbrella organization was envisioned. The individuals quickly became a strong coalition dedicated to the task of forming this organization, later to be named Lambda PTO. Goals Encourage and promote a positive work environment for all PTO employees, regardless of sexual orientation. Promote education and awareness of GLBT employee issues throughout the PTO. Foster an inclusive support and social program. What The Activities Include Lambda PTO offers a wide variety of activities for its membership, spanning from participation in an Office of Civil Rights focus group for provision of requested insight and guidance on GLBT workplace issues to picnics, potlucks, and happy hours. Every attempt is made to provide inclusion to all members while preserving their privacy. When We Meet Lambda PTO meets every first Monday of the Federal bi-week for an informal "coffee break" at 2:30pm at the Innovative Grounds Coffee House in the Madison Atrium. If Monday is a holiday, we will meet on Tuesday. Social activities are occasionally scheduled outside of the office and work period. Happy Holidays to one and all from Lambda PTO!!! How Do I Become A Member? Lambda PTO does not charge membership dues. Simply attend one of Lambda PTO's functions or request to be on the confidential e-mail list. Lambda PTO will make every effort to inform you of the upcoming activities in a manner that you request and to assure your confidentiality.