About Generation Plus

Generation Plus works to leverage the power of the LGBTQ+55+ community through education, advocacy, service, and celebration.

Born between 1946 and 1964, LGBTQ+55+ Baby Boomers played a critical role in advancing the United States gay rights movement. Within one generation, they succeeded in changing social attitudes from seeing homosexuality as a psychiatric condition to winning same-sex marriage rights. Standing on their shoulders we believe that our community is strongest when we stand together.

The LGBTQ+ Boomers are different from others. LGBTQ+55+ Boomers influence the face of aging, not just because theirs is an activist generation, but also because of their increasing visibility and acceptance within the rest of society.

Generation Plus (GenPlus) builds on a legacy created by the WNC LGBTQ Elders and Land of Sky. We work to advance their vision and continue to raise awareness and advocacy for LGBTQ+55+ in the WNC area. Joining us in partnership are many area organizations including Land of Sky, Council on Aging, AARP WNC and more.

GenPlus works to bring new ideas to support the growing and diverse older adult population. We seek to reduce isolation, build social networks, educate and advocate for this community. Join us as we celebrate Aging with Pride. Welcome to life’s third act, the years beyond 55!

Meet the Team!

Buch Thompson – Blue Ridge Pride
Rebecca Chaplin – AARP Mountain Region
Cori Search – Land of Sky
Jen Teague – Buncombe County HHS
Zack Schmidt – Land of Sky
Bob Tomasulo – AARP Mountain Region
Brea Kuykendall – Land of Sky
Vance Goodman – Council on Aging

Mental Health Providers

Eric Davis MS, LCPA, NCC, Counselor

Willow Wellness and Recovery, PC 9 All Souls Crescent Suite B, Asheville, North Carolina 28803 Phone: (828) 490-4137 | Website I am a firm believer in empowerment and self-determination. In the past, I have worked well with folks experiencing a range of issues, such as anxiety, depression, substance-use, sleep disturbances, relationship issues, and issues unique to the LGBT community.

Scott Thomas, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCAS

Silver Lining Therapy 70 Woodfin Place STE 21, Asheville, North Carolina 28801 Phone: (828) 705-3084 | Website I believe humor can be a powerful tool for healing and seek to incorporate this into our time together. Unique to my practice is an approach that truly puts you at the center of the counseling experience, and I draw from a wide variety of techniques to help you see and experience real change in your life. To see if therapy might be a good fit, I offer free phone consultations.

James Harrison, PhD Psychologist

12 Westridge Dr , Asheville, North Carolina 28803 Phone: (828) 348-6300 | Website I enjoy helping people achieve physical and emotional intimacy whether they are young or old, straight or gay, in healthy, responsible, and mutually affirming ways. I also enjoy helping people improve their earning and manage their assets. And I like working with older people. I offer free phone consultations.

Judy Maris, Counselor, LPC, LCPC, MA, MS

Maris Psychotherapy 41 Clayton St, Suite 301, Asheville, North Carolina 28801 Phone: (828) 537-4489 | Website We can explore troublesome patterns that tend to repeat themselves in your life or look at new issues that have just come up. The important thing is for us to work together to get to the bottom of your difficulties and resolve them. I will assist you in becoming more aware of what you are feeling and thinking in the present moment. The untapped wisdom within you is a powerful healing force. Let me help you gain access to your full inner resources. I offer free phone consultations.

Elizabeth Heaney, Counselor, MA, LPC

166 E Chestnut Street, Asheville, North Carolina 28801 Phone: (520) 447-3319 | Website I work with individual adults with concerns like: family history issues, relationship concerns, life satisfaction issues (related to jobs, living situations or relationships), anxiety and depression. I’ve had a particular focus on working with couples, addressing every aspect of relationship challenges – relationship dissatisfaction/boredom, affairs, sexual/intimacy issues, etc. And I was a civilian counselor on military bases for several years, so I have a clear understanding of the unique pressures and challenges facing service members and families. I offer free phone consultations.

Siljoy Maurer

Holistic Perspectives P.O. Box 333, Enka, NC 2872 Phone: (828) 333-0103 | siljoy@me.com or www.HolisticPerspectives.com For many years now I have been mentoring men and women from all walks of life. It continues to be my greatest joy to accompany someone from “just being ok” into thriving! As a Mentor & Healer I partner with my clients in creating authenticity, wellness and deep contentment, in whatever area of their lives they are seeking change. The combination of giving very practical, livable tools for direct “next steps” while “holding the big picture” and then manifesting that big picture often feels like this: a new client brings me their life or life situation in a jigsaw puzzle box, they lost the lid and forgot what the picture on it looked like. I am good at knowing that picture and then guiding my clients/mentees to put all the puzzle pieces together.