Where Pride Meets Community: Diversity Shines at Beatitudes Campus

For many LGBTQ+ older adults, home isn’t just about where to live but how to live. With limited gay senior living and LGBTQ assisted living options available, many are searching not just for safety but for a community that embraces their identity. A place where they can live openly, authentically and feel a sense of belonging. And for residents Ann Shannon, Conrad Egge and Sharon Dewey, that place is Beatitudes Campus in Phoenix.

As one of the most welcoming and diverse retirement communities in the region, inclusion and acceptance are part of our foundation. Whether it’s celebrating Pride Month with drag queen bingo or creating events that include everyone, the culture at Beatitudes Campus is one where residents are seen, respected and free to share their whole selves without explanation.

With an estimated 2.7 million LGBT adults age 50+ in the U.S.—and 1.1 million age 65+—this population is growing, and so is the need for spaces that honor those identities. To celebrate Pride Month, we spoke with Ann, Conrad and Sharon about their journeys, reflections and what it means to live authentically at Beatitudes Campus. 

Ann Shannon: ‘All belong here.’

Ann moved to Beatitudes Campus in January 2025, and from the start, she felt the genuine hospitality of a diverse elderly group that embraced her without hesitation.

“I received a couple of notes from residents on my door welcoming me,” she said. “Several people, seeing my name badge, mentioned they knew I was the new person in the building. Most people speak whenever they see other residents — even if they don’t know them.”

For Ann, inclusivity goes beyond pleasantries. She noticed many non-LGBTQ residents proudly wearing rainbow-colored stickers on their badges. “I’m unaware of anyone who seems to care if I am gay,” she added. “To me, that is inclusive and accepting.”

What impresses her are the Beatitudes Campus events reflecting this inclusive culture. “There will be a bingo party in June presented by a well-known Phoenix drag queen — a celebration of who we are,” she said.

Her advice for others researching lesbian retirement communities? Ask the tough questions. “If possible, visit several places,” she said. “Ask if they are LGBTQ-friendly and accepting. If they don’t understand the question or seem uncomfortable with it, you probably shouldn’t move there.”

Conrad Egge: ‘It’s home. I feel a real sense of belonging.’

When Conrad, and his partner, Bob—together for 33 years—chose Beatitudes Campus, they did so knowing it was one of the most inclusive communities in Phoenix.

“We knew that Beatitudes was gay-friendly. So it was a no-brainer,” said Conrad, who moved in March 2020. “Being a gay man here is not a big deal. I have not once had anyone be unkind to my face.”

Bob’s health declined soon after the move, and he eventually transitioned from independent living to assisted living and memory care. “I don’t know how I, or we, could have managed that decline living in our private residence,” Conrad said. “Difficult as it was, I’m sure Bob found it more helpful as well.”

Conrad found healing and friendship in the community, building a stronger social network than he had ever known. “I decided I needed to get out, make friends, do things and volunteer for tasks that I could do. And that’s exactly what I did,” he said. “I’ve made many friends who I meet for dinner at [campus establishments] Elaine’s or Buckwald’s or coffee. Or we’ll go for walks or to their homes.”

When asked what makes Beatitudes Campus special, Conrad didn’t hesitate. “What’s unusual about this place is the people,” he said. “Diversity is encouraged and fostered. We have a diverse staff and residents, and a lot of them are gay.”

To those considering a move, he offered this advice: “You should come here when you’re doing well, not when you may have to go in and go right to bed,” he said. “Come when you can still spend time connecting with the community.”

Sharon Dewey: ‘It is a perfect place for me.’

Sharon and Nan, her wife of nearly 50 years, began looking at senior living options three years before she made the move. “The comment I most often hear is, ‘Oh, I’m not ready for that yet,’” she said. “But we started early so I could live authentically in a safe, friendly place accepting of all faiths, where everyone belongs.”

When Sharon arrived at Beatitudes Campus in April 2024, she immediately felt the community’s inclusive vibe. “I was made welcome long before I even moved in,” she said. “Sara and Ray from the marketing team invited me to events, and when I got here, there was a newcomers’ gathering, neighbors stopped by, residents greeted me and everyone made me feel at home.”

Sadly, Nan passed away in 2023, but the heartfelt reception Sharon received after moving to Beatitudes Campus was healing. “When I told people my wife died, I could feel their compassion. I was never made to feel any different because I had a wife instead of a husband,” she said. “Many people here have gone through extremely painful losses. Talking with others who understand has helped me manage the pain.”

Sharon chose Beatitudes Campus for its safe environment, vibrant energy, and abundant social opportunities that keep her active and engaged. “The events are so well done and organized,” she said. “There’s always something fun to do and plenty of options to choose from.”

From educational workshops (like learning to play the ukulele or mastering her iPhone) to concerts, movie nights, themed street parties and lively social hours, Sharon dives into it all. One of her favorite campus events was Oktoberfest, complete with brats and German beer.

She also loves staying active with power walks, aquatic classes and workouts in the fitness center. And when it comes to off-campus adventures, Sharon’s taken full advantage, enjoying scenic cruises on Arizona’s Lake Pleasant and Canyon Lake.

Her experience is proof that being part of a community that honors senior living diversity means gaining a life full of energy and connection. “Beatitudes Campus is not a perfect place,” she added, “but it is a perfect place for me. I’m happy here.”

Living Out Loud: Pride, Inclusion and Belonging at Beatitudes Campus

At Beatitudes Campus, senior living diversity shines through in every program, celebration and connection. With visible support for the LGBTQ+ community and a culture rooted in respect, this is what LGBT retirement communities should strive to be.

For those seeking gay retirement communities, or simply a welcoming place to live life out loud, Beatitudes Campus offers a model for the future of aging with pride. During Pride Month, Beatitudes celebrated Ann, Conrad, Sharon, and every resident who’s helping redefine what it means to age in a community, with courage, love and authenticity.

Michelle Just, Beatitudes’ president and CEO, summed it up best. “At Beatitudes Campus, we believe everyone deserves to grow older in a place where they feel safe, seen and celebrated for who they are. Creating an inclusive and welcoming community isn’t just a commitment—it’s who we are,” she said. “We are honored that residents like Ann, Conrad and Sharon have chosen to live authentically here. We continue to strive toward a community where belonging is a shared value, lived out every day.”