Pride in Aging RI was created in 1995 by a group of dedicated volunteer community members. Originally known as Senior Action in a Gay Environment (or SAGE-RI), the organization was officially incorporated in 1997. In 2012, we became affiliated with SAGE-USA, the national umbrella organization. As one of 27 affiliates across 20 states in the country, this relationship gave the organization access to national resources and support.

From 2019 to 2022, we engaged in various capacity-building work, and the organization moved from a Steering Committee model to a formal Board of Directors model. The Board wrote and implemented policies and procedures and created an organizational structure in order to strengthen its long-term sustainability.

In 2023, after a strategic decision at the national level, we officially changed our name to Pride in Aging RI, aiming to be more inclusive and representative of our work. Our original goals were to provide outreach to isolated older members of the LGBT community and to empower older gay men and lesbians to take part in decision-making that affects their lives.

Today, Pride in Aging RI works to:

1. Promote advocacy efforts that center the needs and rights of LGBTQ+ older adults,

2. Create opportunities to reduce social isolation and engage LGBTQ+ community members in activities and services, and

3. Provide training and education to healthcare and social service providers to expand and enhance LGBTQ+ safe spaces for our older adults.

We welcome volunteers, members, and supporters of all backgrounds and believe that together, we can create a world that is supportive and inclusive of LGBTQ+ older adults.