Introduction

Intergenerational Program

Myths Vs Facts

Comparisons

Problems & Issues

Facts - Older Adults

Recruitment

Getting Started

Agenda

Conclusion

Tips

 

Youth at Risk Site

STU Home

Setting the Agenda

On a large bristle board a question such as “Tell us one or two things you would like to see happen here today,” or “What do you imagine the other group[ youth or senior respectively] wants to happen here today?” This also demonstrates to the participants that the day is about them and that the happenings of the day are integrally related to their findings and participation. Another exercise pertains to questions asked to the participants that gauge how the groups can be better organized.

The facilitator must be able to lead and follow the lead of the group. Activities and dialogue must be set up in such a way that the participants are engaged and motivated to stay involved.

After you have warmed the group up to each other with some initial questions and icebreakers, you will be better equipped to determine what activities they might enjoying doing together. The following are a few examples of possible activities you might want to try with your group.

•Create a Technology Day/Computer Class, where the youth can help older adults understand and use the internet. By doing so, this will give them the opportunity to send email back and forth , in essence becoming cyberpals. They may also want to find things on the Internet.

•Create an Intergenerational Talent Show whereby youth and older persons learn and perform the songs, games, dances and music spanning the last 100 years.

•Organize a Community Forum of younger and older persons to discuss issues of importance to both groups. Have youth and seniors lead small break away groups together

More Activities

Post Activity Check-In
It is important that there is some sense of post activity follow-up so that all participants have a chance to reflect on the experience. This not only provides feedback to the facilitator as a form of evaluation, but can generate ideas for future events. Further, such closing reflections may encourage participants to journal write or keep track of ideas in the intervening time which can promote their own self-growth and development.