Building Bridges

EDITOR’S NOTE: Each week, we feature intergenerational program ideas that were tried and successful. This series is a tool to highlight various age-optimized programs and practices. The program descriptions are provided by representatives of the programs. Inclusion in this series does not imply Generations United’s endorsement or recommendation, but rather encourages ideas to inspire other programs.

In part 23 of our series, we feature Building Bridges, a program of the University of Missouri Extension.

(Check our archives for parts 1-22.)

Building Bridges is a community-based intergenerational program to help bring generations together for meaningful interactions and experiences.

Education, friendship, and caring are major components. The program evaluation results showed that Building Bridges not only helped young generations practice character traits, but also have more positive perceptions of growing old.

The majority of children and youth from Building Bridges felt that they showed their caring, respect and sharing with older adults and made older adults happy and less lonely.

Through the program, both generations have a better understanding of each other and their comfort zone for conversation and sharing was enhanced.

Got something cool you tried that was successful? Why not tweet your cool intergenerational ideas to #cooligideas? You can also post them to ourIntergenerational Connections Facebook Group or just text us through the FacebookMessenger app (friend me to join our Cool Intergenerational Ideas group discussion). We want to highlight innovative age-optimized programs and practices through our blog, social media and weekly e-newsletter! Share the inspiration.