MiGen believes we have all earned the right to Age Out Loud and offers an array of programs and services intended to make the lives of LGBTQ+ folks ages 45+ safer, more connected, more vibrant and more FUN.
To get connected with any of the programs and services listed below, fill out the client application form here or by clicking the button below.
To register for programming or events, click this link: https://www.monami.io/calendars/mi-gen.
To keep up with programs, events, news, and more, sign up for our newsletter!
Current Programs
Food Box Delivery: Boxes of non-perishable food are delivered once a month to low-income LGBTQ+ adults aged 60 and above who are experiencing food insecurity in Wayne, Oakland, Washtenaw, and Macomb Counties.
Technical and Computer Support
Do you want to “get” technology? Our Tech Buddy program has both online and in person instructional options to help you use web services such as paying bills, sending money, finding an internet provider, using email, zoom, social media platforms and more.
Friendly Caller
The Friendly Caller Program aims to increase community connections and social support for LGBTQ+ older adults ages 45 and up through weekly friendly calls. Additionally, participants are matched with someone and commit to at least one call per week for a four month period, with an emphasis on relationship building.
MiSocials (virtual and in person)
Our weekly MiSocials bring together LGBTQ+ older adults from across Michigan. This is your chance to learn and make new friends in the process through community discussions with special guests. Meetings are Thursday at 11 a.m. and are free and open.
2nd Sunday Arts Program
The Second Sunday Art Program is a monthly event showcasing the works of a single artist, followed by an open Q&A with the artist.
Crafts and Conversation
Crafts and Conversation is a monthly in-person drop-in event at Affirmations in the Intergenerational Room. Designed for ages 45 and up, it’s the perfect opportunity to explore your artistic side, connect with others, and enjoy a relaxing, creative experience. All skill levels welcome.
MiStory
MiStory is a monthly virtual event which allows our LGBTQ+ elders to pass on their wisdom and comradery by sharing their unique and diverse stories. Each virtual MiStory focuses on a historical event and invites participants to share, listen, and learn.
Adult Vaccination
We provide pop up events, and partnerships with other organizations to provide vaccinations for the Flu and for COVID boosters, and we help navigate the barriers older LGBTQ+ adults might have to keeping their vaccinations up to date.
Community Navigation & Support
Community Navigators provide friendly and comprehensive assistance to LGBTQ+ seniors in need of additional resources. Community Navigators can help seniors access community assistance programs, transportation, housing and more. Our Navigators help to eliminate barriers of technology and transportation by providing step-by-step assistance in-person, by phone, or virtually.
Part of our Community Navigation system, Michigan’s Medicare counselors will help you understand your Medicare health plan options, identify resources for prescription drug assistance, explore long term care financing options and more.
Trans Aging Project
Recruitment and training for volunteer health advocates who are able to accompany transgender and gender non-conforming (GNC) older adults to medical appointments to assist with advocacy, allyship, support, and resource connections.
Black Led Mental Health Project
The Black Led Mental Health Project is an initiative by Black-led organizations connecting Black people who are at risk for depression and other mental health concerns to Black and non-white providers for behavioral health services, as well as primary care and ancillary services. This project is conducted in partnership with Detroit based, Black-led organizations Hannan Center and Corktown Health.
Support and Discussion Groups (virtual and in person):
Downriver Sip & Chat – Kekoa Brew C., Woodhaven
Hosted in partnership with The Senior Alliance, the Downriver Sip & Chat brings LGBTQ+ older adults together to connect, build community, and engage in conversations on topics ranging from hobbies and personal interests to health care access and the challenges of social isolation.
Meets on the second Monday of each month from 1:00 to 3:00 PM.
LGBTQ+ Pride in Aging Coffee & Chat – Turner Senior Resource Center, Ann Arbor
In partnership with Community Health Services of U-M Health’s Turner Senior Wellness Program at the Turner Senior Resource Center, Pride in Aging Coffee & Chat provides a welcoming space for LGBTQ+ older adults to gather regularly, socialize, share stories, and connect with the community.
Meets on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month from 1:00 to 3:00 PM.
Detroit Elders Project – Hannan Center, Detroit
The Detroit Elders Project provides a space for LGBTQ+ older adults and allies to engage in meaningful discussions on important issues. Covering behavioral and physical health as well as broader community concerns, this program educates, informs, and fosters connection. Open to all ages 18+, discussions welcome all interested participants.
Meets on the third Thursday of each month from 5:30 to 7:00PM
Caregiver Support Group – Virtual
Open to LGBTQ+ caregivers and those caring for LGBTQ+ older adults, this virtual support group provides a safe space to connect, share experiences, and find support. Discussions focus on the unique challenges of caregiving while also recognizing the meaningful rewards it brings.
Meets on the second Wednesday of each month from 1:00 to 3:00PM
Senior Koffee Klatch (Ferndale) – Discussion and networking group for LGBT people 45 and older. Meets in person on Wednesdays from 1-2:30PM at Affirmations (290 W Nine Mile Rd, Ferndale, MI 48220). Contact programs@migenconnect.org for more information.
Senior Koffee Klatch (Royal Oak) – Discussion and networking group for LGBT people 45 and older. Meets in person on Fridays from 1-2:30PM at the Royal Oak Community Center (3500 Marais Ave, Royal Oak, MI 48073). Contact programs@migenconnect.org for more information.
Men of the Hour – Discussion and support group dedicated to addressing issues specific to Men Living with HIV/AIDS (MLWHA) in our community. Meets in person every 3rd Wednesday of each month at MSU-Detroit Center (3408 Woodward, Detroit, MI 48201) 5PM-7PM. Light meal provided. For more information, you can reach out to Cornelius Wilson by email at cwilson@migenconnect.org or by phone at 313.942.2803.