We are proud to recognize Southern Arizona Senior Pride as the inaugural recipient of the SAGECollab Partner of the Year Award! This recognition is named in memory of Reynaldo Mireles, Jr., a dedicated advocate and coalition builder who helped pioneer SAGECollab and honors organizations that embody collaboration, mentorship, and a deep commitment to advancing equity for LGBTQ+ older adults.
SAGECollab is a national network that connects organizations serving LGBTQ+ elders to strengthen programs, share knowledge, and expand access to affirming care. Rooted in partnership and peer learning, it helps local organizations deepen their impact and better meet the evolving needs of their communities. Southern Arizona Senior Pride exemplifies this spirit—leveraging innovation to build a stronger, more connected system of care.
Founded in 2004 as part of Tucson’s LGBTQ community center, Wingspan, Southern Arizona Senior Pride began as a space for social connection. After Wingspan’s closure in 2014, community volunteers sustained the work, and in 2020, the organization became an independent nonprofit. Today, it is a leader in LGBTQ+ aging services in Southern Arizona, supported by a dedicated staff and more than 80 volunteers, and offering programs that reduce isolation, improve health outcomes, and support aging with dignity.
At the heart of its impact is the Community Cares Program, which provided more than 3,300 services in 2025 alone from transportation and home support to friendly check-ins and caregiver relief. The program’s emergency assistance fund has also helped participants remain safely in their homes and access urgent care. Alongside this, Senior Pride offers peer support, advance care planning, provider training, and advocacy—all grounded in a community-centered approach.
LGBTQ+ older adults in Southern Arizona face many of the same challenges as their peers—housing, healthcare, and financial stability—alongside heightened risks of isolation, discrimination, and lack of affirming services. Through strong local partnerships and engagement with SAGECollab, Southern Arizona Senior Pride continues to meet these needs with culturally responsive care while strengthening a broader network of support.
Looking ahead, the organization is focused on expanding its programs, growing its Community Cares reach, and hosting its annual Aging with Pride conference. As we celebrate this recognition, we also honor Reynaldo Mireles, Jr.’s legacy—reflected in the collaboration and care that define both SAGECollab and Southern Arizona Senior Pride’s work to ensure LGBTQ+ elders can age with connection, dignity, and respect.
