Center on Halsted has announced that it plans to expand its programs for LGBT seniors. The facility received a $150,000 grant from Ken O'Keefe and Jason Stephens to launch the expansion of programming designed to meet the needs of LGBT older adults.
'This generous grant to the Center responds to our long-term plans to broaden our existing services to LGBT seniors,' Robbin Burr, executive director of Center on Halsted, said in a statement. ' [ O'Keefe and Stephens' ] multi-year grant will enable us to immediately implement our plans to expand our programs for seniors as we complete construction of the community center.'
Center on Halsted currently houses the Just4Adults program that provides social opportunities, education, outreach, workshops, weekly support and social groups. LGBT elders receive case management and counseling support from Center on Halsted's professional counseling staff as well as an array of cultural, recreational and social opportunities.
An advisory panel made up of program participants and others will provide input for programmatic expansion. Current program expansion plans include elder mentorship of Horizons Youth Program participants, expanded services for shut-ins and vocational assistance. The organization will also provide a variety of volunteer opportunities for active seniors.