In today’s episode, you will hear what Gerri Norington is contributing to the dating scene for African American women age 50+!
Gerri, who is currently retired from a very successful career as a Business Development Specialist, founded Black Seniors Network (SBSN), a networking/socialization organization hosting activities for single seniors including speed-dating, regular socials, Let’s Talk Discussion groups and health education workshops. These are all geared to encourage healthy living and more fulfilled interactions among single Black singles.
SBSN has a monthly newsletter that is circulated to its 400 plus supporters. In 2006, Gerri entertained the idea of starting social events for seniors with a matching making component. Gerri says, “Online dating sites were explored, but game playing seemed to be the order of the day, and it was revealed that the caliber of people didn’t measure up. Finally, in 2016, I saw a documentary done Senior speed dating called “The Art Of Love” about Caucasia seniors in upstate New York. Suddenly, the spark was reignited to organize social events for black singles and to offer speed-dating events dispersed among the other social activities to facilitate connections. Single Black Seniors Meet (now Single Black Seniors Network) was born.
Gerri is the ideal person to have started this venture. With a degree in Industrial Psychology, she understands the need for women age 50+ to connect with a companion that is also navigating the aging landscape. She also understands s the importance of providing a secure environment for dating through the establishment of a secure network that is not open to predators. Participants are thoroughly vetted beforehand through an invitation only method.
An equal number of women and men are invited to each speed-dating event. Speed-dating is an opportunity to have conversation with 10 individuals of the opposite sex in succession for 8 minutes each to determine if you have common interests and want to spend more time getting to know each other.
Some matches have been made with upcoming weddings on the horizon!
Senior Black Seniors Out on the Town is a subgroup Of SBSN that plans outings such as concerts, plays and dining experiences for those who mainly want to partake in group activities.
