June 5, 2026 —The Kendal System proudly reaffirms a year-round commitment to supporting LGBTQ+ rights, residents, members and employees nationwide. In an important display of unity and acceptance, Kendal at Home, based in Ohio, recently achieved the prestigious SAGECare Credential for LGBTQ+ inclusivity, while Lathrop Community residents actively participated in the local Hampshire Pride Parade in Massachusetts. These milestones highlight just two examples of the Kendal System’s enduring dedication to creating a safe, welcoming and non-judgmental space where all individuals are empowered to be their true selves.
Lathrop Community ( A Kendal Affiliate) Marches in Pride Parade
This spirit of inclusion and shared values extends deeply into community life. At the Lathrop Community, a contingent of employees and residents proudly marched in the recent Hampshire Pride Parade (an annual event Lathrop has officially participated in for 11 years!) Sarah Gauger, Executive Assistant, helped coordinate the celebration, highlighting the strong connection between employees and residents. The community’s decorated vehicle was met with overwhelming warmth and enthusiasm from the crowd, with parade viewers of all ages cheering to see older adults proudly celebrating love, diversity and community connection.
Residents shared that they truly felt that their presence at this community event made an impact. The joyful reactions from the crowd spoke volumes about the power of visibility and connection.
Residents shared the enthusiastic support they heard coming from the crowd gathered to watch the parade.
- A young man waving a rainbow flag cheered, “Yeah, gay ‘old’ people!!”*
- At least twice along the route, excited women shouted out, “I’m on the waiting list!”
- A group of teenage girls in the center of town exclaimed, “Look at all the older people. I love them!” followed by enthusiastic cheering from the whole group.
- While waiting at a crosswalk after the event, two young men were overheard reflecting on the day by noting, “It was a great parade. There were older people and everything.”
Though the skies were grey, the warmth, excitement and sense of belonging were undeniable, and it was a day to truly feel proud.
*Please note that while the Lathrop Community’s preferred term is “older adults” or “older people”, the term “old” used by the spectator was taken truly as a compliment and acknowledgment that the intergenerational representation of Lathrop Community there was joyfully appreciated.
Kendal at Home (A Kendal Affiliate) Receives LGBTQ+ Organization Credential
Kendal at Home received its SAGECare Platinum Credential and recertification following a rigorous assessment of its policies, practices and staff training. The credential process evaluates senior living and care organizations based on criteria including non-discrimination policies, staff training on LGBTQ+ cultural competency, community engagement and resident support services.
By meeting and exceeding these standards, the organization has demonstrated a deep commitment to promoting a diverse and supportive environment for LGBTQ+ older adults.
“We are thrilled to partner with SAGECare in our shared mission to improve the lives of LGBTQ+ older adults,” said Karen Graham, CEO. She adds, “At Kendal at Home, we believe in fostering an organization where everyone feels respected, valued and celebrated for who they are. The “CCRC-at-Home” model can be particularly appealing to older adults who desire privacy and full acceptance. This credential reaffirms our dedication to providing an inclusive environment that prioritizes the well-being of all”.
“Welcoming Diversity” Video on Kendal Website
To further illuminate this dedication to equity and belonging, the Kendal website features an inspiring video highlighting diversity and the sense of belonging by all Affiliates across the System. The presentation shares real examples of the strength and warmth found when individuals authentically express themselves at Kendal. It beautifully captures how community members feel connected, find affinity with one another and thrive together in a nurturing environment.
To watch the moving video and for more inspiring stories of belonging and community, visit https://www.kendal.org/about-kendal/kendal-values/diversity-equity-inclusion-belonging/