When we think about what all goes into aging gracefully, our LGBTQ+ elders are often encouraged to keep active. To keep going. To keep moving. To keep thinking. To keep living.
Staying engaged in meaningful work – whether it be a job, volunteering, caregiving, or other creative pursuits – can act like a medication as we age. This offers real benefits for both the brain and the body, supporting cognitive function, emotional well-being, and physical health. Social connection, a sense of purpose, and mental stimulation aren’t just nice to have; they’re essential facets of a healthy aging process.
However, to keep going and find that meaningful work, which looks different for everyone, our elder community members can often use some additional resources and guidance.
Founded with a goal of guaranteeing these resources to LGBTQ+ adults, Pride Compass is The Center’s newest initiative. The free, short-term case management program is an off shoot of West of 50, which serves thousands of queer and trans adults over the age of 50 each year. Through dedicated time with our staff, Pride Compass connects individuals with crucial resources like healthcare, transportation, and community benefits, and assists folks who are seeking housing and employment opportunities.
Kathleen Ryan (left), smiles for a photo alongside another West of 50 member in November 2024
Kathleen Ryan (she/her) has been a regular attendee of West of 50’s programming for nearly a year. She was one of the first to access services provided by Pride Compass.
Kathleen spent twenty years of her life working as an educator at the Florida School of the Deaf and Blind. After decades in the classroom and time spent as a diagnostician for students with visual impairments, she left the workforce and became a caretaker for her daughters and their young children.
With five years of retirement and family caretaking now under her belt, Kathleen began seeking new employment opportunities this year.
“I am one of those people who gets gratification from working,” shared Kathleen. “I want to create purpose in my life and integrate into the community.”
West of 50 members converse and smile together at a community event.
That connection to other people and her larger community was what convinced Kathleen that it was time to pursue a new opportunity. Though the spark had been ignited within her, some wariness about returning to the workplace remained.
Kathleen’s biggest fear was “fitting in and being able to do the job. I don’t want people to look at me like an old woman, but a person who is equal. I want my job to help my confidence, not hurt it.”
The support of Pride Compass allowed Kathleen to move past her initial fears and start pursuing her dreams. “I was stuck,” she reminisced. “The one-on-one support I was given really mattered. It showed that I could do it.”
Kathleen successfully updated her resume, drafted a cover letter, and applied for a job at a local library that fueled that spark within her.
Attendees of West of 50's supportive Lesbian Lounge space laugh together.
“Pride Compass offers a ton of resources and assistance,” she said. “If you want to do something, you can accomplish it with a little support.”
Pride Compass is up and running, ready to welcome in any LGBTQ+ community member over the age of 50 who is seeking help with employment, housing, transportation, health and wellness, and more. If you are looking for a way to stay vibrant as the years pass by, start by getting involved. Keep showing up. It matters more than you think. And when in doubt, know that The Center is here to help as a resource, advisor, and friend.
About Pride Compass
Our West of 50 team provides free, short-term case management services to help adults ages 50 and better maintain their independence in the community.
Our team connects individuals with essential resources such as community benefits, healthcare, transportation, and mental health support. We also assist with navigating Colorado’s complex housing options and help individuals access employment opportunities.