This project has been in the works since 2011 and I’m so happy it’s finally happening! We’ve had the pleasure of working with Deb Weberpal from Whitewater’s “Seniors in the Park” to create a local “Gay and Gray” group for area seniors. The first one will take place on March 12th and will be an exploratory meeting to learn more about community needs.
Interested volunteers are encouraged to attend.
The direct link to the press release is here!
Contact: Deb Weberpal FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tel: (262) 473-0535
Email: dweberpal@whitewater-wi.gov
SUPPORT AND SOCIAL PROGRAM FOR SENIOR LGBT COMMUNITY
Seniors in the Park and The Ruby Project team up to offer regular “Gay and Gray” group
The senior population identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender is often grossly overlooked and ignored. Whitewater is widely known as a college town, but Seniors in the Park and The Ruby Project will combine the senior and college population with a new “Gay and Gray” monthly group. This social and supportive group will offer seniors social activities, such as game and movie nights, as well as supportive services, such as workshops and guest speakers. Area college students will be afforded the unique opportunity to learn from seniors identifying as LGBT by volunteering during these events at the Starin Park Community Building in the heart of Whitewater.
As the pioneers in the gay rights movement age, there are few local resources to support them. “There are people in the community who could use these services,” says Deb Weberpal, Director of Seniors in the Park. “The members will determine where the group goes and what services and supports are needed.” An Exploratory Meeting will be held on Monday, March 12th, 2012 at the Starin Park Community Building to gather ideas and suggestions from Whitewater residents. The program will welcome input about social activities, workshops and guest speakers, and more. 12Pizza, snacks and drinks will be provided at 6:30pm with the meeting following at 7:00pm.
Seniors in the Park is no stranger to providing much needed supports and services to area seniors. Their comprehensive calendar offers everything from Tai Chi and Gliding, to Chess and Euchre, to lectures series and day trips around the state. The “Gay and Gray” group will offer even more options to its members and community. Volunteers are an integral part of their success, and they welcome volunteers from UW-Whitewater and surrounding areas.
The Ruby Project (Janesville) currently offers a variety of supports and services for Janesville and surrounding area residents. “Our mission is to empower and educate our LGBTQA community of all ages,” says Kelley Blair Ostermann, Director of The Ruby Project. “We are excited to be able to facilitate such a unique program for area residents. Other cities interested in also forming “Gay and Gray” groups are watching this whole project closely to gain ideas and supports to run a similar successful program in their own communities.”
Seniors in the Park is conveniently located in the Starin Park Community Building in beautiful Starin Park. For more information on programs and activities call 262-473-0535 or pick up the Park Bench newsletter at the Starin Park Community Building, Irvin L Young Memorial Library, Whitewater Aquatic Center, and the Whitewater Municipal Building.
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If you’d like more information about this program, or to schedule an interview with Deb Weberpal, please call Deb directly at (262) 473-0535 or email her at dweberpal@whitewater-wi.gov.
