Robert Petrera joined Gay & Grey Montreal in 2025 as a participant before progressing to administrative assistant and now General Manager of the volunteer-run nonprofit creating safe, welcoming spaces for 2SLGBTQI+ English-speaking people aged 50+ through social gatherings, discussion groups, cultural outings, and educational events designed to reduce isolation and build meaningful community connections.
Describe your charity/non-profit/volunteer work in a few sentences.
Gay & Grey Montreal is a non-profit, volunteer-run organization that creates safe, welcoming spaces for 2SLGBTQI+ English-speaking people aged 50+ in Montreal and its surroundings. We organize social gatherings, discussion groups, cultural outings, and educational events that help reduce isolation and build meaningful community connections.
What problem does it aim to solve?
Many 2SLGBTQ+ seniors experience social isolation, especially those who may not have traditional family support systems. Some face discrimination in senior services or feel invisible within both mainstream seniors’ spaces and younger 2SLGBTQ+ spaces. Our organization works to reduce loneliness, foster belonging, and advocate for inclusive aging.
When did you start/join it?
I joined Gay & Grey Montreal in 2025, initially as a participant, and later became more involved as the administrative assistant, and now I am assuming the role of General Manager.
What made you want to get involved?
I saw firsthand how powerful it is for 2SLGBTQ+ seniors to have a space where they can be fully themselves. Many members lived through decades when being open about their identity was unsafe. I wanted to help ensure they have a vibrant, affirming community now.
What was the situation like when you started?
When I joined, we were rebuilding and expanding our programming, working hard to reach isolated seniors and adapt to changing community needs. Like many organizations, we were also navigating post-pandemic reconnection and rebuilding in-person engagement.
How has it changed since?
We’ve grown our programming, strengthened partnerships with local community organizations such as New Hope Senior Center, attended symposiums on ageing that also addressed ageism, and expanded our outreach to include intergenerational workshops. There’s greater awareness today of the specific needs of 2SLGBTQ+ seniors, and we’re proud to be part of that broader conversation and ensure English-speaking Montrealers are part of the dialogue.
What more needs to be done?
There’s still work to do in combating isolation, improving access to inclusive healthcare and housing, and ensuring long-term care facilities are affirming and safe for LGBTQ+ elders. Sustainable funding and intergenerational connections are also key priorities moving forward.
How can our readers help?
Readers can support us by volunteering their time, making a donation, sharing information about our programs, and simply reaching out to 2SLGBTQ+ seniors in their own circles. Our membership continues to grow, and we encourage community members aged 50+ to consider joining our vibrant group of seniors who are committed to connection and positive change. Meaningful community begins with small, intentional acts of inclusion.
Do you have any events coming up?
Our calendar of events is updated monthly and offers a wide range of activities to suit diverse interests. From potlucks, bring-your-own-lunch gatherings, and Sunday brunches to weekly happy hours, there are plenty of opportunities to connect socially. Beyond food-focused events, we also organize cultural outings—such as visits to the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts—and encourage members to take advantage of our free tech support classes. We strive to ensure our programming reflects the varied needs of our community, and we continue to expand and evolve our activities throughout the year.
Where can we follow you?
Website | Instagram | Facebook
PAY IT FORWARD: What is an awesome local charity that you love?
Make sure you support ACCM, as well as New Hope Senior Center.
