Rainbow Elders is a program that offers socializing, support, and resources for older LGBTQIA adults in Franklin County, the North Quabbin region, and beyond. Over the years, it has grown into a strong and welcoming community. What began as a small effort has turned into a program that provides connection, learning, and advocacy. Here’s a look back at how it all began and how far we’ve come.
Early Beginnings
In 2006, staff at Franklin County Home Care (now LifePath) formed a Diversity Committee. From that, the Rainbow Elders Steering Committee was created with help from the LGBT Aging Project in Boston. The first-ever LGBT Elders Breakfast took place in June 2006, sparking excitement and conversation.
Building Awareness
In 2011, Rainbow Elders co-sponsored a showing of Gen Silent, a powerful documentary about LGBT aging. Over 150 people came from across New England, making it clear how important this work was.
By 2012 and 2013, events became more frequent. Along with regular breakfasts, Rainbow Elders hosted the first Intergenerational Supper in June 2013, the same day the Supreme Court struck down the Defense of Marriage Act. Young and old gathered to celebrate. Around this time, a newsletter was launched to share news, resources, and upcoming events—a tradition that continues today.
Growth and Leadership
In 2014, Rainbow Elders hired its first paid facilitator, social worker Dave Gott, who led with care and commitment until his retirement in 2023. 2014 also marked the start of four annual events: a winter breakfast, spring intergenerational dinner, summer picnic, and fall educational program.
In 2015, the Steering Committee formed an educational panel called The Rainbow!, which helped local groups learn about LGBTQ+ issues through personal stories and discussion. Rainbow Elders also joined the first-ever Franklin County Pride that year.
Memorable events followed, including a 2016 summer picnic at the home of two dedicated supporters, a tradition that continued until 2024, and a record-breaking dinner in 2017 with guest speaker Robyn Ochs, co-hosted with Community Action’s Gen Q youth program.
Expanding Programs
In 2018, Rainbow Elders partnered with LifePath’s nutrition program to launch the first Rainbow Elders Luncheon Club, offering a hot meal and connection for LGBTQIA elders.
When the pandemic hit in 2020, gatherings moved online. To help ease isolation, Rainbow Elders began weekly virtual events, which continue today twice a month alongside in-person meals and meetups.
New Leadership and Fresh Ideas
In 2024, Cris Carl became the group facilitator. Under Cris’s leadership, new in-person gatherings launched at the Greenfield Library and Orange Senior Center. That year also brought a new highlight: the first-ever LGBTQ+ older adults riverboat cruise.
Looking Ahead
From a single breakfast in 2006 to a wide range of programs and events today, Rainbow Elders has become a vital source of connection, learning, and joy for LGBTQIA older adults. Many in this community face unique challenges with isolation, and the need for safe, welcoming spaces to socialize is greater than ever. Rainbow Elders is committed to meeting that need by offering gatherings, meals, and opportunities to connect—helping older adults build friendships, share experiences, and feel a true sense of belonging.
To learn more or sign up for our newsletters, visit LifePathMA.org/RainbowElders.
