By Valerie Milano
Photos: SAGE/Corlyce Olivieri
Palm Springs, CA (The Hollywood Times) 3/24/26 – There are evenings that remind you exactly why community matters, and last night’s SAGE & Friends Palm Springs celebration at Living Out was one of those unforgettable gatherings.
From the moment guests arrived, there was a palpable sense of warmth, purpose, and connection. The room was filled with community leaders, advocates, and friends, all united in support of SAGE’s mission: to ensure LGBTQ+ older adults can age with dignity, respect, and joy.
I had the pleasure of attending with my dear friend Roberta Conroy, who, in true Roberta fashion, not only showed up with grace and style, but walked away as one of the evening’s most celebrated honorees.
The evening honored two remarkable individuals: Barry McCabe, recipient of the Community Leadership Award, and Roberta Conroy, who received the prestigious Pioneer Award.
Roberta’s recognition felt especially meaningful. Anyone who knows her understands that she embodies the very spirit of community, generous, engaged, and always showing up for others. Watching her be acknowledged for years of dedication to the LGBTQ+ community was both emotional and inspiring.
There was something incredibly special about sharing that moment with her, not just as a fellow attendee, but as a friend lucky enough to witness her impact firsthand.
Throughout the evening, speakers emphasized the urgency and importance of SAGE’s work. With heartfelt remarks, SAGE leadership, including newly welcomed CEO Lynn Faria, reaffirmed their commitment to advocacy, direct services, and creating spaces of joy for LGBTQ+ elders.
As one message resonated clearly: the fight for equality and dignity continues, and organizations like SAGE remain on the front lines, ensuring that no one in our community ages alone or unseen.
In a time when challenges facing the LGBTQ+ community persist, the room felt like both a sanctuary and a call to action.
Hosted beautifully at Living Out Palm Springs, the evening struck the perfect balance between celebration and purpose. Guests mingled, shared stories, and raised a collective toast, not just to the honorees, but to the resilience and vibrancy of the community itself.
I also had the pleasure of meeting several inspiring individuals and reconnecting with familiar faces, reminding me once again how strong and interconnected the Palm Springs LGBTQ+ community truly is.
On a personal level, I am deeply grateful to have been part of this evening, and even more grateful to have shared it with Roberta.
Watching a friend be honored in such a meaningful way is something I won’t soon forget.
As SAGE continues its vital work nationwide, events like SAGE & Friends Palm Springs serve as powerful reminders of what’s possible when community comes together, with intention, compassion, and a shared vision for a better future.
If last night was any indication, that future is in very good hands.
