Frankfurt Project Pairs Volunteers With Queer Seniors

Why this is here: The project broadened its scope from HIV-positive men to encompass the entire LGBTQ+ community, recognizing the unique challenges faced by queer seniors who may lack familial support.

Volunteers in Frankfurt are pairing with queer seniors to combat loneliness and exclusion. The “Regenbogen Buddies” (“Rainbow Buddies”) offer companionship through conversations, walks, and activities. Roland Marzinowski of Frankfurt’s Aidshilfe coordinates the project, calling it a sign of intergenerational solidarity.

Currently, ten such pairings—or “tandems”—exist. The program aims to provide support from peers within the queer community. Seniors can share their life experiences, including past desires, while volunteers contribute their time.

The project began around 20 years ago as “Rosa Paten” (Pink Sponsors). It initially focused on supporting HIV-positive gay men.

Now, “Regenbogen Buddies” includes the entire LGBTQ+ community. Organizers note loneliness is a significant issue for seniors, especially those lacking family or with strained familial ties. The now-repealed “Schwulenparagraf” (gay paragraph) historically criminalized homosexual acts.