New Resource Provides Tools for Intergenerational Program Planners

Over the past 30 years intergenerational programs have been growing in popularity, allowing older and younger generations to recognize and share their skills, needs, and experiences with one another, and also address critical community needs.

To assist providers looking to develop and strengthen intergenerational programs, HHD partnered with the Center for Intergenerational Learning (CIL) at Temple University to produce Connecting Generations, Strengthening Communities. This toolkit is designed to increase awareness of the value of intergenerational strategies for both addressing individuals’ needs and strengthening communities, and to provide the knowledge and tools necessary to implement them. The toolkit is intended for health educators, human service providers, and community leaders working with community-based and government organizations serving youth, older adults, and/or families.

CIL asked HHD to collaborate in conceptualizing, writing, and editing the toolkit, which represents CIL’s 26 years of experience in developing and teaching about intergenerational programs. HHD contributed its expertise in synthesizing large amounts of information to create user-friendly materials on program development and implementation that are accessible to a wide range of community practitioners.

 “The two organizations formed a great partnership,” says Melanie Adler, Senior Research Associate at HHD and director of the project. “It was a very rewarding experience to work with these content experts to create such a valuable resource. The project reflects the commitment of both organizations to strengthen communities and improve the health and well-being of individuals across the lifecycle.”

“Rather than the traditional view of young people and older adults as problems to be solved, intergenerational programs are involving them as resources to be tapped,” says Jeanette Bressler, Director of Research and Long-Term Care Initiatives at the Center for Intergenerational Learning, Temple University.

The toolkit includes:

• A 13-chapter handbook on assessing community needs and resources, developing partnerships, and planning and sustaining programs. The handbook emphasizes how to work effectively with volunteers, including recruitment, training, and supervision strategies.
• A CD-ROM toolbox containing more than 80 downloadable resources, including planning and evaluation tools, training curricula, and group activities.
• A 15-minute video or DVD highlighting five intergenerational programs that illustrate how bringing together young and old can improve lives and communities.

To order the toolkit, please visit http://www.templecil.org/resources/toolkit/index.htm

November 30, 2005