During Pride Month, local LGBTQ+ advocacy organization Project Pride SRQ and Senior Friendship Centers are collaborating to present Silver Pride 2026, celebrating LGBTQ+ community members ages 50 and better. This free event will take place on Saturday, June 6 from 12-4 p.m. at Senior Friendship Centers (1888 Brother Geenen Way, Sarasota).
The organizations are dedicating the day to “Honoring Our Past, Celebrating Our Future,” as icons from the LGBTQ+ community are celebrated. The afternoon will feature live music, food available for purchase from Mellow Mushroom, tabling by local vendors and community partners – with information about resources available for senior-related services as well as LGBTQ+ support and advocacy, and plentiful excitement and fun for all who attend. There will be raffle prizes and giveaways over the course of the afternoon.
Local TV personality Joey Panek will serve as the event host/emcee. Live entertainers will include Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, Azara Ballet, Diversity Voices, Dingbat Theatre Project, Tap Kats, Dame Lindsay Carlton-Cline, and DJ Janine.
There will also be a panel presentation, titled “Aging Out Loud: LGBTQ+ Life, Legacy, and Belonging Across Generations.” The details regarding panelists and moderator are being finalized at this time.
“For many older adults in the LGBTQ+ community, being seen and feeling safe are particularly important as there was significant discrimination as well as stigma attached to being gay when they were younger and not permitted to be their authentic selves,” said Project Pride SRQ interim executive director Justyn Hunter-Ceruti. “We are thrilled to be able to provide a safe and joyful environment for older adults to celebrate Pride Month among old friends – and new ones!”
“Senior Friendship Centers is dedicated to supporting the health, dignity, and connection of all older adults in our community,” added Declan Sheehy, Chief Advancement Officer for Senior Friendship Centers. “Events like Silver Pride reflect our solid commitment to ensuring every older adult—regardless of background or identity—has access to a safe, welcoming environment where they can thrive, build relationships, and feel a true sense of belonging.”
Silver Pride 2026 is free and open to the community. Sponsors include Aviva Senior Living, Millennium Physician Group, and WUSF/NPR. Valet and self-parking will be available on-site. Community members are encouraged to learn more and register at ppsrq.org/silverpride2026.
For more about Project Pride SRQ, visit ppsrq.org. For more about Senior Friendship Centers, visit friendshipcenters.org.
About Project Pride SRQ
Project Pride SRQ is a Sarasota-Manatee based nonprofit organization that strengthens and uplifts the LGBTQ+ community through visibility, connection, and collaboration. Founded in 2019, the organization brings together local nonprofits, businesses, artists, educators, and civic leaders to help build a more inclusive region. Through signature events, youth scholarships, community gatherings, and collaborative programming, Project Pride SRQ creates meaningful opportunities for LGBTQ+ people and allies to feel seen, supported, and celebrated. For more information, visit ppsrq.org.
About Senior Friendship Centers
The mission of Senior Friendship Centers is to build vibrant communities by advancing wellness, connection, and enrichment throughout the journey of aging. Since 1973 this organization has served people 50 and older in Sarasota, Charlotte, DeSoto, and Lee counties with programs and services including activity centers, lifelong learning, dining centers and meals delivered to the homebound, caregiver support, adult day services, supportive aging services, and volunteer opportunities. For more information about Senior Friendship Centers, call 941-955-2122 or visit friendshipcenters.org.
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