Lower Adirondack Pride helping LGBT+ community, more to come

GLENS FALLS, N.Y. (NEWS10) -Lower Adirondack Pride is known for bringing Pride festivals back to Glens Falls in 2023. However, the volunteer organization is about more than just having fun. 

President Cam Cardinale says they are here to help. "Since May 31, 2024, we have supported just about 6,000 individuals within our community. That's through events and direct advocacy."

Anyone looking for local resources, like a doctor referral, or facing homelessness, can contact Cam and his team to find the right match. The group doesn't have an official office and relies on pop-ups and business partners like Black Walnut Books to spread the word and hold events.

"It is a great funnel. I try to collect as much information as I can to tell people so they can branch off in so many different directions," said Hillary Smith, Owner of Black Walnut Books and Secretary on the Lower Adirondack Pride Board.

Just last month, volunteers were credited with saving 9 people who were on the verge of taking their own lives. "We are not a crisis organization but people see us as a safe space. These are people at their last breaking point. So, they have a plan and we step in to intercept," explained Cardinale.

On Tuesday, Lower Adirondack Pride voted to create an older adult outreach program. Volunteers will be partnering with senior living facilities and nursing homes to bring support and resources to a generation that is typically not as "out".

The program is expected to be up and running sometime in October. "Going from that loneliness into a community there's a bit of apprehension: will I be accepted? Will I be seen as me after not being seen for so long? To finally feel that acceptance in a community that they maybe never had," described Selena St. Claire, a member of Lower Adirondack Pride.