Center on Halsted announced today plans to expand its programs for LGBT Seniors. The Center received a $150,000 grant from Ken O’Keefe and Jason Stephens to launch the expansion of programming designed to meet the needs of LGBT older adults.
“This generous grant to the Center responds to our long-term plans to broaden our existing services to LGBT seniors,’ said Robbin Burr, executive director of Center on Halsted. “Ken and Jason understand the significant needs of the Chicago area’s LGBT senior community.. Their multi-year grant will enable us to immediately implement our plans to expand our programs for seniors as we complete construction of the community center.’
Center on Halsted currently houses the Just4Adults program which provides social opportunities, education, outreach, workshops, and weekly support and social groups. LGBT elders receive case management and counseling support from Center on Halsted’s professional counseling staf. Cultural, recreational and social opportunities are also offered. Scheduled to open in June of 2007 at Halsted St. and Waveland Ave., Center on Halsted will have more than 3,000 square feet of space dedicated specifically to senior programming. Seniors at the Center will also enjoy access to a variety of informal gathering spaces, meeting rooms, cyber center, exercise classes in the gymnasium and cultural programs in the theater.
An advisory panel made up of program participants and others will advise. Plans include elder mentorship of Horizons Youth Program participants, expanded services for shut-ins, housing and room-mate referrals and support, wellness education and vocational assistance. The Center will also provide a variety of volunteer opportunities for active seniors.
As a part of the expansion, Center on Halsted is expected to announce the re-christening of its current Just4Adults programs as Sage/Chicago. Sage, (Senior Action in a Gay Environment) is a nationally known organization dedicated to meeting the unique needs of the senior gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender communities. It is committed to providing high quality, life enriching programs and services in an intergenerational environment that values age, gender, racial, religious, ethnic, cultural and socioeconomic diversity.
Info at www.centeronhalsted.org or www.sageusa.org.