SPRINGFIELD – A new state-funded grant program is aimed at helping LGBTQ+ seniors feel more assured about being OUTSafe, through sensitivity training for the service professionals who meet their needs.

A grant from state Sen. Doris Turner and the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority has helped AgeLinc – the Area Agency on Aging for Lincolnland serving central Illinois – and other organizations develop OUTSafe: The LGBTQ+ Older Adult Violence Prevention Training Program.

Officials say there is growing violence and abuse against the LGBTQ+ community, with reported hate crimes growing significantly in recent years. Seniors in that community face other challenges because they might not be open about their orientation or identity, fearful they will be discriminated against or face painful stigma.

OUTSafe provides free cultural competency and sensitivity training to law enforcement, health care, social service and other workers who engage with LGBTQ+ seniors. It helps them understand LGBTQ+ appropriate language and terms, and how to better create a safe space for them to seek help without being fearful.

“OUTSafe serves as a powerful reminder that there are many people in our communities who have experienced decades of pain, abuse or feeling like they don’t matter. That must end today,” said Carolyn Austin, CEO of AgeLinc. “We thank Senator Turner, ICJIA, and our training partners and allies who will help us reach office, caseworkers, care workers and others to make LGBTQ+ seniors feel safer and more respected. This is vital work and we are ready for the challenge.”

The program is available to any interested provider over the coming months. Organizers hope to reach and train hundreds of service providers to help better reach elder adults.

Service providers interested in scheduling a training session can learn more at https://agelinc.org/lgbt-support/.