"The survival of our society depends on people of different ages, races and ethnicities recognizing that all of us are interdependent - that our lives are inextricably linked."
-Nancy Z. Henkin, Ph.D., Founder and Executive Director Temple University Center for Intergenerational Learning
Why is it so important to connect generations now?
Changing demographics. Today in the United States there are approximately 34 million persons over the age of 65. With a projected lifespan of up to thirty years after retirement, millions of older and retired individuals will be seeking an array of opportunities to contribute to their communities and play meaningful roles in society.
Unmet Needs. Across the country, children/youth, older adults, families, and communities face unprecedented challenges. Over 13 million children are growing up in poverty. Many older adults, too, experience a myriad of problems. There are gaps in service to met the needs of individuals, families and communities.
The fraying social compact. The quality of life in communities is a concern for every generation. Violence, crime, racial/ethnic tension, and a lack of social connectedness is increasingly evident across America. Increased mobility, the high divorce rate and economic upheavals have seriously eroded the reciprocity of caring that strengthens families. Intergenerational strategies can build social capital and foster connectedness among residents of all ages in all communities..