Intergenerational Program Database

For the past couple of years, the Dartmouth High School National Honor Society has been hosting the Sweetheart Dance at the Council on Aging. This event gives high school seniors the ability to interact with older adults in the community. The Honor Society students provide the decorations, the food, the DJ, and the entertainment. During the event, the older adults have a chance to grab some food and dessert and enjoy the dance floor.

Since 2010, we have been gratified to participate in a wonderful collaboration with the Jewish Family Services' Program, called Kesher-13. Kesher-13 supports our growing multigenerational program by facilitating relationships between middle school students and Orchard Cove Residents (seniors). In addition, we have a very active working relationship with Temple Israel of Sharon, MA. The program's name is "Telem", with the objective placed upon the youth of the temple performing community service by visiting Orchard Cove residents and interfacing them through various programs, including arts & crafts, Jewish Community Life, health & wellness and music therapy.

Companions to Elders matches volunteers and elderly citizens within the Waltham community. Volunteers visit their companions weekly in assisted living facilities throughout Waltham. The program also has at least two group gatherings per semester at two nearby retirement communities.

CCB partners with elementary schools, high schools and colleges for intergenerational programs.

Generations works toward bridging the gap between senior citizens and college students. Students and seniors meet for social events at Brandeis and the seniors’ home in Newton.

Generations Together is a program at JCHE (independent, affordable housing for seniors). Youth from preschool age to medical school students participate in intergenerational programs with residents at JCHE on a weekly, monthly, and bimonthly basis.

We're pleased to be able to offer intergenerational get together between the students of Hoyle School and our seniors. Recent visits have included story reading and Presidential skits. It's always a special day when the students visit and a good time is had by all.

Program at Kids Ink Too that matches school-aged children with a "gramp" at Sunrise Assisted Living. They are penpals; they exchange gifts, spend time together, and bond when they swap visits.

The high school student council provides a Senior Citizen Brunch for elders in the community to visit the high school, enjoy a meal, and spend a few hours interacting with the high school students. This event is coordinated by the high school students in collaboration with the Lakeville Senior Center and Freetown Council on Aging.

Through the Intergenerational Matching Program volunteers are matched with elder friends to develop long-term relationships. Volunteers commit to visit regularly, 3 - 4 hours a month. The value of the personal connection of the visitor and the elder cannot be underestimated. The elders in this program are the most vulnerable. In addition to friendly chats, watching movies and going for walks, elders may be assisted by their “visiting friends” with the daily challenges of living independently.