“What would you tell your younger self?”
It’s a simple question, but for Jeff and Val, two LGBTQ+ older adults from Minnesota’s Twin Cities, the answers came from a lifetime of lived experience.
In this special Pride conversation, host Paul Cram sits down with Jeff, Val, and Jethra from Friends & Co’s Let’s Do Lunch Café to explore coming out, belonging, aging, community, and the wisdom they hope to pass on to future generations.
There are moments of laughter. Moments of reflection. And one powerful moment of silence that reminds us just how meaningful it is to be truly seen, heard, and accepted. These stories don’t just celebrate Pride, they remind us that belonging matters at every stage of life.
Every day, Friends & Co creates spaces where older adults can find friendship and belonging, including LGBTQ+ older adults, through our programming. No one should have to grow older feeling invisible or alone.
Your donation helps Friends & Co create spaces where older adults—including LGBTQ+ older adults—can build friendships, share their stories, and experience genuine belonging. Please make a gift today at FriendsCo.org. Together, we can create more moments like the ones you heard in this conversation. https://friendsco.org/donate/
If you’d like to learn more about Friends & Co, Let’s Do Lunch Café, or other programs that help combat loneliness and isolation among older adults, visit https://www.FriendsCo.org. #Pride #LGBTQ #LGBTQOlderAdults #GaySeniors #LesbianSeniors #TwinCities #Minnesota #Community #Belonging #Storytelling #ChosenFamily #OlderAdults #FriendsAndCo
Topics covered: • LGBTQ+ older adults • Gay seniors • Lesbian seniors • LGBTQ+ community in Minnesota • Twin Cities Pride • Aging and belonging • Chosen family • Coming out • Pride stories • Friends & Co • Let’s Do Lunch Café
