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Coffee, Conversation, and Community: Drop-In Discussion Groups for LGBT Seniors

There are several social drop-in discussion groups available in the counties of Marin, Sonoma, and Napa that are special places for LGBT older adults. What constitutes an ‘older adult’ you ask? We leave that up to you, but attendance is typically people whose age is anywhere between 50 and 100.

Following is a general description of each group. All are free of charge to attend, and all occur on a monthly basis. You are welcome to visit any group that appeals to you, regardless of where you live. Since these are drop-in groups, you may come once or each time. You do not need to be a member or join anything. These are NOT therapy groups.

Descriptions have been provided by the facilitators of each group. Unless specified otherwise, Spectrum is not responsible for the content or management of any group.

MARIN COUNTY: Novato

When: Second Wednesday of each month, 12:00 – 2:00 PM
Where: Novato Human Needs Center, 1907 Novato Blvd., Novato   •  (415) 897-4147
Brown Bag Lunch (optional) 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM – Coffee and Cookies Provided
Facilitated Discussion 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM

Facilitated by Nancy Flaxman, MSW

View/Download August 2014 Flyer

Description: We gather informally for a brown bag lunch (optional) and then follow with a different topic for discussion each month. Whether you are in the closet or out, partnered or single, shy or outgoing, we hope you will join us for this opportunity to get to know each other and build community.

This group is made possible by the Novato Human Needs Center commitment to LGBT inclusion, by a grant from Marin Community Foundation, and by outreach assistance from Spectrum LGBT Center.
The Novato Human Needs Center values diversity. Whatever your ethnicity, religion, country of origin, language, abilities, sexual orientation, or gender, you are welcome here.

NAPA COUNTY: Napa

When: First Tuesday of each month, 10:15 am – 12:00 PM
Where: Queen of the Valley Community Center, 3448 Villa Lane, Napa
10:15 AM to 10:30 AM: Arrival, coffee and pastries provided

Facilitated Discussion 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM

Facilitated by Paula Pilecki, Executive Director, Spectrum LGBT Center

Description: Napa’s first discussion group for LGBT older adults is now in its third year! Join us for a very casual, fun, and relaxed group discussion with different topics each month. There is often a film featured, followed by relevant discussion. Plenty of street & lot parking, wheelchair access, and located on major transportation routes. Whether in the closet or not, we’re discreet and confidential. For more information, call 707-583-2330 (24 hour confidential voice message line, checked regularly).

This group is made possible with funding from Napa County Health and Human Services, and hosted in partnership with LGBTQ Connection Napa and Spectrum LGBT Center.

SONOMA COUNTY: Santa Rosa

When: Fourth Tuesday of the month, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
>Where: Glaser Center at UUCM, 547 Mendocino Ave., Santa Rosa
Social time 1:00 – 1:30 PM; facilitated discussion 1:30 – 3:00 PM
Facilitator: Rotates on a volunteer basis
The group is not affiliated with any religious denomination.

Description: Join us for lively discussions, mutual support, sharing information, and all the while celebrating who we are. Everyone is welcome; there is no charge. Whether you’re in the closet or out, you are welcome!

SONOMA COUNTY: City of Sonoma

When: Third Friday of the month, 10:00 AM – 12:00 Noon
Where: Vintage House Senior Center, 264 1st Street East, Sonoma

Social time 10:00 – 10:30 AM; facilitated discussion 10:30 – 12:00 Noon

Coordinators: Gary “Buz” Hermes (707) 227-6935 and Janice Farrell (415) 608-5792

Description: All ages and abilities welcome! Come join us and feel free to bring a friend or neighbor. After the group, some of us go to lunch at a local restaurant.

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