Outreach to Diverse Populations

Last modified Wednesday, July 30, 2008 15:08

The older adult population is changing. ARC and the Aging Network are committed to addressing the diverse needs of the older adult population. ARC currently supports the work of the following:

• Clarkston Community Center, Inc. , serving refugees in the DeKalb County community.
• The Center for Pan-Asian Services, Inc. , serving the Asian-American community throughout Georgia.
• Latin American Association , serving the Latino community in the Atlanta region.

GLBT Outreach

The Atlanta Regional Commission also supports the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Advisory Group.

The GLBT Advisory Group is part of the Atlanta Regional Commission's Aging Atlanta Project.  Started in March of 2004, the group brings together professionals in the field of aging and other individuals who are concerned about the unique issues facing GLBT older adults.

The GLBT advisory group is supported by the following agencies:

• Atlanta Lesbian Health Initiative
• Atlanta Volunteer Lawyers Foundation
• Atlanta History Center
• Atlanta Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program
• Georgia Association of Homes and Services for the Aging
• Georgia Council on Aging
• Georgia Division of Aging Services
• Henry County Senior Services
• Senior Citizen Services
• Visiting Nurse Health System

In its advisory role to the Atlanta Regional Commission, the group is charged with finding ways to prepare the Atlanta aging network to serve this distinct population and insure that GLBT older adults access aging services.  By serving in this capacity, the group will assist the Atlanta region in creating an aging network that engages all people.

Who Will Decide? (PDF) - A brochure that addresses drafting wills and legal assistance for gay and lesbian couples.

Gray Gay Guide to Resources (PDF) - A 50-page booklet listing services and providers that are sensitive to the needs of elder GLBT persons and caregivers.

A 2 hour “Rainbow Training” focused on how to better serve the needs of older GLBT adults, is available to agencies and service providers throughout the Atlanta region. The training provides basic education on the socio-cultural and historical context of elder GLBT communities, addresses the social and psychological needs and concerns of GLBT elders and focuses on practical approaches and techniques for providers working with the senior population. Two hours of CEU credit is available through NASW – Georgia Chapter.

If you are interested in scheduling a Rainbow Training for your staff or for more information about GLBT outreach, please contact Jennifer Curry at jcurry@atlantaregional.com  or 404.463.3213.