Generation Plus
Born between 1946 and 1964, LGBTQIA2S+ 55+ Baby Boomers played a critical role in advancing the United States gay rights movement. Within one generation, they succeeded in changing social attitudes from seeing homosexuality as a psychiatric condition to winning same-sex marriage rights. Standing on their shoulders we believe that our community is strongest when we stand together.
GenPlus builds on a legacy created by the WNC LGBTQ Elders and Land of Sky. We work to advance their vision and continue to raise awareness and advocacy. Joining us in partnership are many area organizations including Land of Sky, Council on Aging, AARP WNC, and more. We seek to reduce isolation, build social networks, educate and advocate for this community. Join us as we celebrate Aging with Pride. Welcome to life’s third act, the years beyond 55!
We work to include the 4 Pillars of Blue Ridge Pride.
Advocacy– Working to advocate on behalf of our aging LGBTQIA2S+ community through a variety of initiatives.
Celebration– includes community events such as our monthly ‘Connections’ social group, annual picnics, holiday gathering, and more.
Education– Information sharing, building connections and educating the public on issues regarding the LGBTQIA2S+ aging community.
Serve– By providing our initiatives, events, and information we serve an under-represented community to Advocate, Celebrate, Educate and Serve for their needs and rights as equal citizens.
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Connections
Connections is a monthly meeting for our LGBTQ+ elders to socialize, educate and advocate. The vision for Connections is to provide a thriving group that welcomes and elevates us all. Our goals include bringing awareness and information to a growing LGBTQ+ elder community settling in the region. Our organization affirms the right of everyone to live as their authentic self.
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Thrive!
Thrive! is an educational lunch and learn program for our Generation Plus LGBTQ+ senior community. We believe in nurturing the mind, body and spirit in an all-inclusive environment. Each month features a new topic such as nutrition, exercise, and more. This series showcases members of our community presenting information to better enjoy our lives as LGBTQ+ elders.
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A World without Ageism
In partnership with Buncombe County Aging Services, AARP and others, we envision a world without Ageism. We host opportunities to learn about ageism and elder abuse in May (Older Americans Awareness Month) and June (Elder Abuse Awareness Month).
Upcoming Events
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Thrive Lunch & Learn
On April 16th 12-2pm, LGBTQIA2S+ elders (55+) are invited to join us for a free lunch and learn. Paula Kelley, RN, MSN, NCG will be presenting on “supported Decision-Making” - a model to support individuals as they navigate advanced care planning, maintaining self-determination and raising awareness on exploitative practices.
Blue Ridge Pride Office
1330 Patton Ave Suite A
Asheville, NC 28806
RSVP required:
April Open Mic
Blue Ridge Pride is hosting an open mic for LGBTQ+ folks of all talents on April 17th at Ginger's Revenge 6-8pm. This event happens monthly on the Third Thursday!
Come share your voice with our community & connect with someone new! queers & allies welcome!
Open-mic signup will begin at 5:45, so come early and drag a friend along with you~
There will be drinks and snacks available for purchase at Ginger's Revenge. They have a range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic options
This event will be 21+
A wheelchair accessible entrance to the brewery is located through the glass RAMP studios door facing Broadway and also through the double glass doors at the backside of the building.
829 Riverside Dr #100, Asheville, NC 28801
RSVP below:
Spring Gathering
Please join us on Friday, April 18th from 5-9pm to celebrate the coming of Spring with our Generation Plus program.
Features to include:
VIP Happy Hour: Meet your queer electeds!
VIP ticket includes unlimited drinks throughout the night.
Music by Love Handles and Sal Landers
Mingling & Chatting
Dancing & Swinging
GenPlus Speakers
Food by 12 Bones
Beer and Wine
This is an all-ages event to celebrate and raise funds for this vital program.
Attire is formal- come looking radiant and spiffy~ whatever that looks like for YOU!
Tickets are $50 for entry and food, or $120 for VIP happy hour, hors d'oeuvres, dinner, and unlimited drinks. Tickets can be purchased here, as well as by clicking or scanning the QR code below.
Rainbow Inspirations
A virtual series of spotlights on our LGBTQ+ community leaders and influencers. We are grateful to our partner, AARP, for helping to bring this series to our community! Rainbow Inspiration is produced in cooperation with AARP Mountain Region.
Meet Tina White
Meet David Macvaugh
Meet Susan Wilson
Meet Lori Horvitz
Meet Steve Stonecypher
Meet Jackie Lees
Meet Diana King