Mona Mahadevan photo
Linda McLaughlin, Naomi Campbell, and Brenda Adams enjoy the appetizers and iced tea from Cafe Orchid.
At the entrance of the Dixwell Q House’s gym, Monica Spruill walked the purple carpet and paused beneath a balloon arch for photographs.
“There are not a lot of places for [senior citizens] to go,” she lamented. But Saturday evening, she and more than 220 other seniors gathered for a prom-like gala hosted by the New Haven Elks Club.
Inside the gym at 197 Dixwell Ave., circular tables were draped in silky purple tablecloths and topped with gold candelabras. A photo backdrop stood across from a catering station, where dinner was served by ConnCAT’s Orchid Café.
Young people across New Haven volunteered to help organize the event. Eighth graders and 80-year-olds sat side-by-side in formal clothing and listened to live jazz music from Ricky Allen Draughn.
“This was an opportunity to do an intergenerational affair,” said Beaver Hills Alder and local Elks’ Exalted Ruler Gary Hogan. “We wanted to mix young people with seniors.”
The idea for a senior-centered event came from Isabella Windley, president of the New England Elks. “Seniors need to be appreciated,” she said firmly. “And what better way than to let them have a senior prom concept?”
Windley also emphasized the importance of cross-generational mentorship. She hopes that by hearing the wisdom of their elders, young people will be reminded that there is “life outside of [their] realm.”
The night was also designed to prepare eighth graders for their own prom. The seniors offered guidance on formal etiquette, from escorting a date to tying a tie. With support from donations and grant funding, the Elks purchased dress shirts for a dozen boys at Roberto Clemente Leadership Academy — many of whom plan to wear them to their upcoming dance.
Linda McLaughlin, a member of the Q House, gestured around the room. “The atmosphere is lovely,” she said. In her experience, while senior centers host many events, most are held during the day, when working seniors may not be able to attend.
She appreciated having an evening to dress up, listen to live music, and spend time with her friends. With a smile, she added, “us seniors dance all the time.”
Mia Streater, a young member of the Elks planning committee, shared that she felt honored to help give seniors the recognition that they deserve. “My favorite part,” she added, “was how many people came out.”
Lashaya Patterson and Mia Streater, two volunteers for the event, try food from Orchid Cafe.
Seniors were welcomed to the gala with a purple carpet, purple balloon archway, and velvet stanchions.
Ward 28 Alder and local Elks' Exalted Ruler Gary Hogan poses in front of the photo backdrop with local Elks' Daughter Ruler Arlice Brodgon. Brogdon and her daughter chose the decor for the event.
Isabella and Clarence Windley watch the live band play jazz music.
Eighth graders from Roberto Clemente Leadership Academy take a break from the event in a side room.
Monica Spruill listens to live music with her friends.