In early 2024, MiGen reimagined aging within the LGBTQ+ community by partnering with local creatives to produce Rainbow Resilience: An Ageless Fashion Affair. This joyful, sex-positive event celebrates the diversity of LGBTQ+ older adults and has become an annual tradition due to its success. This one-of-a-kind, vibrant event showcases LGBTQ+ older adults from the southeast Michigan community as runway models, celebrating the wide array of lived experiences and expressions within the older adult community. More than a fashion show, Rainbow Resilience brings Aging Out Loud front and center—uniting the community while celebrating visibility, joy, and unity.
Rainbow Resilience 2025
Rainbow Resilience 2025 took place at the historic Detroit Yacht Club, showcasing 11 LGBTQ+ older adults as models, celebrating the diversity of lived experiences within the community. With creative direction by Jess Minnick, co-founder of Not Sorry Goods, each model was paired with a designer to create personalized looks that reflected their resilience, individuality, and personal stories.
Entertainment included performances by Jay Kaplan and Jeffrey Willets, accompanied by Nick Frederick on piano and Jesse Gibbs on percussion, playing classic and modern Broadway hits. The iconic Mocha Pronto and legendary Lady T co-emceed, delivering dazzling performances to keep the energy high throughout the show.
Award Recipients
Partner of the Year Award: Volunteering – Greenfield Presbyterian Church
In recognition of exceptional volunteer support and dedication to enhancing the lives of LGBTQ+ older adults in Michigan through impactful service and community engagement.
Partner of the Year Award: Philanthropy – Stonewall Sports Detroit
In recognition of outstanding philanthropic support and partnership in advancing the well-being and visibility of LGBTQ+ older adults, helping to foster a more inclusive and affirming community in Michigan.
Philanthropic Hero Award – Marti Walsh and Sam Hirsch
in recognition of outstanding philanthropic support and dedication to creating lasting change for LGBTQ+ older adults, ensuring their voices are heard, their needs are met, and their lives are celebrated in Michigan.
Community Impact Award – Jay Kaplan
in recognition of extraordinary contributions and dedication to improving the lives of LGBTQ+ older adults in Michigan, fostering a more inclusive and affirming community through advocacy, leadership, and action.
Sponsors
Lead Partner – Stonewall Sports Detroit
Advocate Partner – Molina Healthcare of Michigan
Supporting Partner – Angela and Jason Gabridge
Benefactors: Roger and Robert Bushnell, Richard Ginnetti and Mike Tocco, Marti Walsh and Sam Hirsch, and Soumya Rangarajan.
Designers
Amanda of Dom Press
Cleo Patricia of Care Less Fashion
Jess Minnick of Not Sorry Goods
Grayson Vine Vintage
Renew The Groove
Seamstress Bee
Flamingo Vintage
Be The Light
Regular Clothing
Divinoir
The Velvet Tower Vintage