About Us
Gay and Grey Montréal is a non-profit organization that brings together and supports English-speaking older adults and seniors (50+) in the 2SLGBTQI+ community in and around Montréal. We are committed to empowering and improving quality of life for this demographic, and providing a positive and caring environment for our members. We offer services and events, and the opportunity for our members and individuals in the broader 2SLGBTQI+ community to connect with each other.
Our Organization
Our Vision
Gay and Grey Montréal (GGMTL) supports two-spirited, lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, trans, queer, intersexed (2SLGBTQI+) English-speaking seniors so that they can live with dignity in an affirming, inclusive, supportive, and healthy environment.
Our Mission
Gay and Grey Montréal is an organization for two-spirited, lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, trans, queer, intersexed (2SLGBTQI+) English-speaking seniors (50 and older) from Montréal and the surrounding areas.
We stand on two pillars.
Pillar one: Provide social and wellness programming to reduce social isolation and improve quality of life.
Pillar two: Engage in outreach and education to the broader community to improve quality of care and ensure appropriate services for 2SLGBTQI+ seniors.
Our History
Gay and Grey Montreal was born from the grassroots determination of community members Bruce Cameron and Miranda Potts. Recognizing a stark absence of resources for English-speaking LGBTQ+ seniors in Montreal, Bruce and Miranda initiated discussions around caregiving and elder support. Despite modest early attendance, their vision resonated deeply within the community, mobilizing an ever-growing number of community members to address this critical need.
In spring 2018, they organized confidential and welcoming gatherings empowering LGBTQ+ seniors to participate openly and authentically, many for the first time. This pivotal shift led to the establishment of Gay and Grey Montréal as an independent, member-driven nonprofit.
Gay and Grey Montréal quickly evolved into a vibrant, autonomous social network and support system specifically dedicated to English-speaking 2SLGBTQI+ adults aged 50 and over. Our mission emphasizes reducing isolation, fostering dignity, and promoting well-being through inclusive, member-led actions.
Our first public appearance at Fierté Montréal 2018 marked the beginning of significant partnerships. We have since collaborated actively with the Conseil québécois LGBTQ, Fondation Émergence, EGALE Canada, and the Centre for Research and Expertise in Social Gerontology. Our work is recognized widely, including partnerships with local institutions such as the New Hope Seniors Centre in NDG, CIUSSS Centre-Ouest, and major academic bodies such as McGill and Concordia Universities.
Today, our community includes over 150 members who actively shape our direction through committees and autonomous initiatives. Members join GGMTL primarily to build community, find support, and engage in meaningful social connection. As a trusted alternative to traditional community spaces, which often remain inaccessible or uninviting. Our unique, member-driven approach continues to create meaningful change, promote inclusion, and enhance the quality of life for 2SLGBTQI+ people over the age of 50 throughout Montreal.
Our Values
These values are the foundation upon which GGMTL is built and are reflected in every aspect of our work. They guide us in our mission to serve and empower our members. Our core values are:
Community
We cultivate a warm and vibrant environment where everyone feels a sense of belonging.
Inclusivity: We strive to create a diverse and accepting atmosphere where every member feels valued and supported.
Respect
We uphold the highest standard of respect, treating each member with dignity, compassion, and understanding. Acknowledging our community's rich tapestry of experiences, we listen, learn, and grow together in solidarity.
Empowerment
We are dedicated to unlocking the potential within each member, offering avenues for personal growth, self-expression, and active community participation.
Collaboration
We believe in the strength of togetherness, working hand in hand with our members, community partners, and stakeholders.
Advocacy
We are committed to championing the needs and rights of our members. By advocating for appropriate services, support, and resources, we ensure that our community's voices are heard and that our needs are addressed at all service provision and policy-making levels.
Board of Directors
Questions, comments, or inquiries for the board may be directed to president@ggmtl.com.