Monday, October 21, 2024

Meet the Movers and Shakers of the Senior Living Industry: Valentino Matlock and the Launch of Egalité Retirement Communities

In a groundbreaking move for LGBTQ+ senior living, Valentino Matlock, a seasoned executive at CareFinders Concierge, has opened a new non-profit organization called Egalité Retirement Communities. Focusing on affordable, inclusive housing for LGBTQ+ seniors, Egalité aims to address the growing demand for safe and welcoming retirement spaces for the LGBTQ+ community.

Located in North Attleboro, Massachusetts, Egalité Retirement Communities is the second LGBTQ+-focused affordable senior living community in the state, following the success of The Pryde, operated by LGBTQ Senior Housing, Inc. Opened in the spring of 2024, The Pryde was the first of its kind in New England and was met with such overwhelming demand that it currently has a waitlist for prospective residents. Valentino’s Egalité aims to continue the vital work started by The Pryde, providing an innovative and accessible resort-style living experience for LGBTQ+ seniors who have often been underserved in the senior living industry.

Matlock’s passion for creating safe, welcoming spaces for LGBTQ+ seniors stems from his personal experiences with discrimination while working in senior living. As an openly gay man, Valentino has seen firsthand the gaps in the industry, and with Egalité, he seeks to address them. The retirement communities under Egalité provide not only affordable housing but also a vibrant environment where residents can live authentically. Matlock has made it clear that the mission of Egalité is rooted in core values of equality, inclusivity, and community, with entertainment and programming focused on LGBTQ+ culture—everything from drag queen bingo to go-go dancers in a nightclub setting.

Egalité Retirement Communities offers a resort-style living experience with a capacity for 60 residents, housed in 30 cozy 1- and 2-bedroom tiny homes. The community features unique amenities such as mini-golf, pools, bars and restaurants, a gym, a movie theater, and even pet grooming and walking services. Matlock’s vision is not only about providing affordable housing but also fostering a true sense of belonging for LGBTQ+ seniors.

Valentino Matlock and his team at Egalité are taking a proactive approach to ensure that the community’s residents have a say in the way their home is run, offering an annual vote to add or remove rules that govern the community. This focus on resident empowerment is at the heart of Egalité’s mission, setting it apart as a leader in the senior living industry.

“We are committed to making sure that our LGBTQ+ seniors live in a place where they feel safe, respected, and can enjoy their lives without fear of judgment,” said Matlock. “It’s about giving them the same freedoms and joys that they would experience in their own homes or communities.”

With Massachusetts leading the way as the first state to legalize same-sex marriage, it’s a fitting home for Egalité’s first community. However, the vision for Egalité doesn’t stop at state lines. Matlock plans to expand into other states, with future communities in Illinois and California already in the works.

As the LGBTQ+ senior population continues to grow, the need for inclusive housing options has never been greater. With Valentino Matlock and his team leading the charge, Egalité Retirement Communities is poised to make a lasting impact on the lives of LGBTQ+ seniors, offering them a safe space where they can truly thrive.

For more information on Egalité Retirement Communities and to learn how you can get involved or support their mission, visit www.egaliteretirement.org.

About Valentino Matlock

Valentino Matlock, MS, CDP, is an experienced leader in the senior care industry, currently serving as Chief Operating Officer and Managing Partner at CareFinders Concierge. He is dedicated to advocating for equality in senior living, particularly for LGBTQ+ seniors. Valentino is a Certified Dementia Practitioner and has been recognized for his outstanding leadership in various roles throughout his career.

About Egalité Retirement Communities

Egalité Retirement Communities is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing affordable, inclusive housing for LGBTQ+ seniors. With resort-style living and a commitment to resident empowerment, Egalité offers a welcoming and safe environment where residents can live authentically. Their first community is located in North Attleboro, Massachusetts, with plans for expansion across the country.

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Company Name: Egalité Retirement Communities
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Country: United States
Website: www.egaliteretirement.org