In 2013, a small group of LGBTQ advocates in the Twin Cities gathered to watch the documentary Gen Silent. Among them were: Harry Hartigan, then board vice president of Friends & Co (formerly Little Brothers Friends of the Elderly, Twin Cities), LuAnne Speeter, Friends & Co interim executive director, and board members from PrimeTimers MSP. The screening drew 125 people and sparked a discussion that left many deeply moved. “The discussion was lengthy,” Harry recalls, “and those attending were profoundly touched by the film. It was clear that we needed to do something for LGBTQ elders.”
At that time, PrimeTimers MSP had received a PFund grant and needed a fiscal sponsor. Members had become aware of Gen Silent, and after conversations with Friends & Co (LBFE) and its board, Harry, LuAnne, and Terry Kywergia decided to use the funding to bring the film to the community. That discussion laid the groundwork for what would become Let’s Do Lunch Café, a space for older LGBTQ adults to gather and connect.
LuAnne Speeter provided the leadership vision for Let’s Do Lunch Café, while Harry and Terry handled the logistics and action steps. The goal was simple but profound: provide a welcoming space where LGBTQ seniors could be seen, heard, and celebrated. “Let’s Do Lunch Cafe isn’t about lunch,” Harry says. “It’s about each and every person who is welcomed and celebrated.”
The choice of a shared meal and coffee was both practical and inviting. A free lunch drew people in, allowing attendees to spend time together in conversation and community. Over the years, Let’s Do Lunch Café has grown from a handful of participants to 70 to 120 older adults regularly attending events. Through the program, participants have built friendships, shared stories, celebrated milestones, and supported each other through struggles, including food insecurity and isolation.
Let’s Do Lunch Café also highlighted the importance of LBFE, now Friends & Co, helping the organization navigate challenging times and strengthen its community presence. Harry reflects, “You would see the friendships, the joy, the love, and the bridges that were built from the first showing of Gen Silent until today.”
Join Us
For older adults in the Twin Cities looking for a warm and welcoming space, Let’s Do Lunch Café offers connection, community, and a reason to gather. Join us at our next event and experience the friendships, laughter, and support that make Let’s Do Lunch Café so special. See all upcoming Let’s Do Lunch Cafe events online here
