Please tell us about yourself!
Gerald (Jerry) Pannozzo (he/him/drag)
I grew up in Michigan. After college graduation from Eastern Michigan University in 1971, I pursued my career in theater costumes. My first job was at a summer theater in California. After that, for about five years, I worked at regional theaters. The summer of 1976 was the summer I officially came out (long story). While working at Syracuse Stage, costume designers suggested I consider working in the NYC costume shops. Following their suggestion, I moved into my Chelsea apartment the winter of 1976.
I worked in NYC costume shops for about five years. At my first job in NYC, I met my professional mentor, and he also became my LGB mentor! Thanks to him we marched in the first National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights on October 14, 1979. In the early 80’s I started a decade long job at the NYU Tisch School of the Arts Design Department, managing a costume shop and teaching technical classed, just as HIV/AIDS hit us. Sadly, my special mentor passed due to HIV/AIDS during December 1986. This was a huge loss for me and set the stage for my next chapter.
In late 1987, I attended a volunteer night at the LGBT Community Center. My volunteering there (over 10 years) proved to be a life changing experience. I volunteered with the Center Dance Committee, Membership Committee, etc. The Center Dances had me tipping my toes into DRAG at some theme dances and eventually lip syncing with the Kaye Sisters from 1991 to 1999.
I made a career change in 1993, to volunteer resources management. I first worked at the AIDS Center of Queens County, then Rivington House HIV/AIDS residential healthcare facility, NYC volunteer center, and several local hospitals with volunteer services departments until my retirement.
As a volunteer, what do you do and what is your favorite part of volunteering with SAGE? How long have you been volunteering at SAGE?
I volunteered as a SAGE Friendly Visitor during 1998 and 1999. This was followed by a special Multigeneration Dance at the Limelight organized by a SAGE volunteer and several volunteers who were invited to join the planning committee. About a year after my retirement (pre-pandemic) I started to volunteer as a dinner server. Once volunteers were called back after the pandemic, I was asked if I would be interested in the Monthly Panty and I immediately said “YES!” A modified pre-packaged meal was provided and eventually, the previous dinner program returned. I enjoy being the team captain for the dessert table on Thanksgiving and Christmas—so grateful to SAGE for providing a space for folks during the holidays. I enjoy interacting with those who attended the events, as well as interacting with other volunteers, and helping with training new dinner server volunteers.
What does volunteering at SAGE mean to you?
It’s about giving back. Over the years I’ve supported and donated to LGBTQ+ organizations that support and advocate for elders, youth, parents, families, HIV/AIDS, legal, etc. At times my volunteer hours vs. dollars were my way to support causes, such as SAGE and other LGBTQ+ organizations.
How has your experience volunteering with our older adult members enriched your understanding of LGBTQIA+ community?
Because I just turned 77, I have a connection to those who tap into the services SAGE offers—especially the social opportunities to connect with “one’s chosen tribe” (as we used to say). It’s comforting to know that there is a safe and supportive space for me as I age. I’m also impressed with volunteers who are younger and interested in supporting SAGE and connecting with those attending the activities.
How do you balance volunteering with SAGE and other parts of your life?
I joke with my friends and family that my new career as a retiree is “professional volunteer.” Following my career change in 1993, I got involved with my local professional association. I currently serve as board chair for New York Association for Volunteer Administration, NYAVA 501 (c)(3), after my three years as president. About five years ago, I got involved with a committee with a national professional association, Association of Leaders in Volunteer Engagement (AL!VE). As of this year, I’m co-chair for the Local Associations Committee. Since 2018, I’ve been involved with local liberal political club, and I’ve served on their board on and off. I still manage to make time for family and friends and also enjoy what NYC has to offer.
