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Matrix Guild Victoria Inc. was founded by and for the benefit of lesbians over forty years of age. We are committed to the support of appropriate care and accommodation choices and alternative lifestyle options for older lesbians in Victoria.
Matrix Guild Victoria Inc. was founded in May 1992 by a group of lesbians and it was incorporated in September 1992.
The visions and aims of these women - to raise money to assist Lesbians, who are marginalised, at risk, disabled and frail - remain our concern and our priority.
We work towards enhancing their wellbeing and quality of life. We do this through provision of information on care and support services, whilst at the same time promoting and liaising with government agencies and service providers to develop more appropriate lesbian friendly services.
The annual Satin and Silk Ball, held since 1994, has generated a stream of income that has enabled Matrix Guild to undertake the projects beneficial to the lesbian community.
Some of these include:
- The publication of a Resource Book, Lesbian Health, Independence & Well-Being Resource, detailing lesbian friendly services
- Employment of a Community Development Worker to progress the Matrix Guild's aim of support and service provision for older/disabled lesbians
- Financial assistance for older/disabled lesbians to access service / treatment, where they have limited means to do so.
Aims and Objectives
- To promote appropriate caring support for older lesbians
- To encourage the development of alternative lifestyle options for older lesbians
- To combat ageism and to oppose discrimination against older lesbians
- To challenge lesbophobia
- To promote social contact and support among older lesbians
- To support and provide accommodation choices that cater to the needs of ageing lesbians
- To promote discussion around issues of ageing
- To advocate on behalf of older lesbians to governments and other relevant bodies
What the Matrix Guild Does
- Holds regular planning meetings and arranges activities in line with Matrix Guild's aims and objectives
- Organises fundraisers, such as the Satin and Silk Annual Ball and Denim and Leather Dance, to raise money
- Provides newsletters for members on a regular basis
- Financially assists older / disabled lesbians in specific circumstances
- Liaises with government and works in partnership with key stakeholders to support and promote appropriate accommodation and care services for older / disabled lesbians
- Holds public meetings to publicise our aims and objectives, to inform and invite feedback from the wider community and to promote discussion about the issues of ageing.
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Provides some low cost rental accommodation to older lesbians who are financially disadvantaged
What Can You Do?
- Organise and / or attend Matrix Guild Fundraisers
- Include Matrix Guild Victoria Inc. as a beneficiary in your will
- Become a member.
Matrix Guild Membership Benefits
- Matrix Guild Newsletters
- Discounted Dance Tickets
- Information on Matrix Guild Support Services
- Discounts with Lesbian Friendly businesses (see Matrix Guild Newsletters)
- Information on Social Events
- Eligibility for Annual Membership Draw.
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