Tribute to Elaine Harvey: Please Help Support Her Family

Dear friends,

The loss of Elaine Harvey weighs heavily on all who have had the privilege of knowing her. For 20 years, Elaine was a constant presence at Callen-Lorde, walking the hallways with purpose and compassion, her boots echoing across the clinic floors. Her unmistakable cadence, the youth in her voice, and the urgency in her altruism in many ways kept our doors open. She was a true pillar in our community, one who inspires us to spread love, to not overthink connection, and to pursue the things we love.

She leaves behind a revolving door of folks who have been changed by knowing her.

She is survived by her four daughters and two sons. To honor her legacy, we are hoping to raise funds to help her family navigate this difficult transition period. Please consider donating if you are able to do so.

Please see some lovely words by Anderson Carter as he remembers Elaine,

"Elaine Harvey, a cherished pillar of Callen-Lorde, has left us far too soon, yet her spirit and warmth will forever echo through every face, wall, and corridor of our 18th Street Head Office. Her graceful presence-tall, elegant, and always adored with that unmistakable smile-touched every lift she encountered.

Over the course of more than twenty years, Elaine's journey from cleaning associate to a respected facilities manager became a testament to her hard work, compassion, and unwavering commitment. Her expertise in Fire Safety and every other skill she mastered was matched only by her generous heart. Elaine wasn't just a colleague, she was a mentor, a friend, and a beacon of kindness for all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Her legacy is etched in the countless stories shared by past and present employees-stories of a woman who made ever the simplest tasks, like sewing clothes or upholstering furniture at home, acts of love. Wherever Calen-Lorde stands, there will always be a trace of Elaine's caring spirit, a reminder that her touch made the world a little brighter.

Elaine leaves behind four loving daughters and two wonderful sons, and a family at Callen-Lorde that embraced her as one of their own. On a personal note, she played an irreplaceable role in my lift, guiding me toward my Fire and Life Safety Director certificate and lifting mw to my current role as Supervisor of Brooklyn. Even now, I feel that we share the same DNA-one if tireless dedication, hard work, and an unyielding loyalty to our community.

The news of her passing, delivered by her daughter Kezia on March 3rd around 5 PM, struck me deeply, reminding me of how proudly Elaine impacted our lives. In every task, she undertook-weather it was painting, electrical work, or plumbing-her spirit was there, making our workplace not just functional, but truly home.

Rest in peace, Elaine. Your light will forever shine in our hearts, and your memory will be lovingly carried forward every day.

You will be forever remembered."