Who are the Prime Timers?

Prime Timers are older gay and bisexual men and younger (21+) men who admire mature men. Our members are men who choose to have their social lives enriched by the diverse activities in which our members engage. No single definition can describe Prime Timers as they come from all walks of life. Prime Timers involve themselves in their community with volunteerism, politics, gay issues, arts, entertainment and every other facet of healthy living. Prime Timers are fathers and care givers; they are businessmen and entrepreneurs; they are workers and they are retired. Some are always on the go and some enjoy the company of others at home. But one thing is true of all Prime Timers, they enjoy the opportunities and friendships that they develop with other Prime Timers throughout the world.

Prime Timers was founded in 1987 by retired professor Woodrow Baldwin. He felt that a gap existed in todays society which caters almost exclusively to youth. This worship of eternal youth is never more flagrant than in gay culture.

Woody began the Boston chapter by placing ads in local newspapers and was encouraged by the response. This indicated a real need for social and cultural organizations to aid and support the mature gay and bisexual man. The idea has grown to over fifty chapters worldwide, located throughout North America, Europe and Australia.

Woody recently made these observations about why Prime Timers is both useful and fun:

• Many older gay men grew up at a time when their sexual orientation had to be concealed.

• Having pursued a career and family, many were not familiar with gay life, and entrance into the lifestyle was often cumbersome and undirected.

• Prime Timers has many interesting activities and these are a great way to get out of the house and have some fun.

• Prime Timers is social only, not political. You don't have to be out. We protect your identity.

• Prime Timers provides an outlet to meet people outside of bars.

The Prime Timers of Philadelphia

Since the spring of 1999, the Prime Timers of Philadelphia has carried on this tradition of providing support to mature gay men and their admirers. Serving members in the city of Philadelphia, southeastern Pennsylvania, southern New Jersey, Delaware and vicinity, it has provided an alternative to the garish light and noise of a bar. This support is provided in a number of ways:

• Regular monthly events like the Wednesday night dinner and the Sunday afternoon brunch. These relaxing events are a great way to get to meet and mingle with wonderful mature gay men.

• Special events that are scheduled based on the interests expressed by the members. These provide variety and a change of pace from the usual routine.

• Private house parties allow for a more personal touch.

• The monthly newsletter is a source of information on the events calendar as well as a venue that the membership can use for invitations, announcements, or whatever they wish to communicate.

• The confidential membership list is a great way to learn more about your fellow gay and bisexual men and is invaluable in helping to reach out and make contact.

• This web site is another of the many features of the Prime Timers. It will keep you up-to-date on the latest news and events of the group.

And of course, like any social group, new ideas and events come from the membership. They are people like you, contributing ideas and efforts so that all benefit from your insights. So if mature gay and bisexual men are your cup of tea, give the Prime Timers of Philadelphia a try. You have nothing to lose and so, so much to gain!

Further info:

If you wish you may download a copy of our Constitution. Or perhaps you'd like a copy of our membership Application (revised 11/2/04). To read these files, you will need Adobe's acrobat reader. This may be obtained by clicking on: