Thirty years ago, the 411 Seniors Centre was established in the government office building at 411 Dunsmuir to make sure seniors got access to all the services that were available to them.
As information about those services started to be shared more and more online, staff and volunteers helped seniors, many of whom didnt even know how to turn on a computer, navigate their way along the information highway.
Thats not the only way the centre has learned how to adapt its services. Ten years ago, there was a bit of a kerfuffle when the centre hosted its first Pride Party but a few of the members went ahead anyway. No one questions the need to celebrate today. On July 30, the centre is hosting its 10th Aging With Pride party at its current location at 333 Terminal.
From 1 to 3pm, seniors are invited to enjoy improv comedy group The Bobbers, sing along with Barbara Shaw and test their knowledge in the trivia contest. There will also be a sandwich and dessert luncheon. A $5 donation is suggested.
LGBT seniors broke through the barriers of prejudice and stereotypes in the past and some of them are having to do it all over again now that they are older, says the centres program and volunteer co-ordinator, Alexandra Haines. As they age and move into seniors residences, they sometimes encounter hostile staff on whom they rely.
They become closeted again because they are being taken care of, says Haines. Its part of ones identity to have that freedom [to be yourself]. To have that taken away would be so depressing.
For more information about Aging With Pride or the centres services, call 604-684-8171 or email [email protected].
Meanwhile, the West End Seniors Network, Qmunity, Haro Park Centre and Gordon Neighbourhood House are organizing a G(r)ay and Glamorous social and dance at Barclay Manor on August 1 from 5 to 8pm. An RSVP at 604-669-5051 or [email protected] would be appreciated.
They are also arranging a vintage bus, courtesy of the Vancouver Transit Museum Society, to carry seniors who might not want to walk the entire length of the Pride Parade on August 4. To register to march and/or ride with them, contact Bonnie at Qmunitys Generations Project at [email protected] or 604-684-8449.
