Aging with Pride Erie Pursues Plans with the Persad Center's OWLS

Several months ago, Aging with Pride Erie was approached by the OWLS (Older Wiser Leaders) group from the Persad Center in Pittsburgh to discuss joint programming and activities in the future. Those plans are one step closer to fruition as the two groups met on March 2 to discuss social activities in Erie and in Pittsburgh for older LGBTQA+ adults. The OWLS have expressed an interest in traveling to Erie (in warmer weather) to meet and to enjoy activities that Erie offers: museums, restaurants, boat cruises, Presque Isle State Park, and other attractions. A committee of Aging with Pride members is now at work drafting several suggested activities for the Pittsburgh OWLS. The tentative date for this Aging with Pride/OWLS event in Erie is May 18. Likewise, the OWLS are looking at opportunities in the Pittsburgh area that would appeal to Aging with Pride members in Erie. This activity would occur later in the summer. There is great enthusiasm on the part of both organizations to collaborate on shared activities and programs. Members of both groups are familiar with Erie and Pittsburgh and are looking forward to building a strong partnership that enriches older LGBTQA+ people.

For more information on either organization, please use these links:

Aging with Pride Aging with Pride, an organization of senior LGBT+ members and allies, develops and sponsors social/recreational and educational events to promote healthy leisure activities, community and an active, enjoyable lifestyle.

LGBTQ Mental Health | Persad Center | Pittsburgh

About the Author

Blane Dessy

Blane Dessy (He/his/him) Being part of a community is very important and helping to build that community is equally important. I volunteer because it's important to contribute to efforts that support others and that build an environment where everyone can be successful. I also volunteer with Hagen History Center, Sarah R. Children's Center, Burleigh Legacy Alliance, Indiana University of Pennsylvania, and NWPA Poetry. I attended Indiana University of Pennsylvania for my undergraduate degree and received my master's degree from the University of Pittsburgh. I recently received an advanced certificate (post-master's) in Archival Studies from PennWest University. I have also volunteered with the Erie Community Foundation LGBT Funds. I'm a voracious reader and buy far too many books.