Big Brothers Big Sisters of Rock, Walworth and Jefferson Counties, Inc.

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.

This week’s cool idea is Big Brothers Big Sisters of Rock, Walworth and Jefferson Counties, Inc., which matches youth between the ages of 6 and 14 with Seniors living in an Independent Living Senior Community.

(Check our archives for parts 1-50.)

The youth and older adults meet once a week for a couple of hours each to share experiences and learn new things.

This program is part of the overall youth mentoring programs of Big Brothers Big Sisters and helps multiple generations with the match.

Statistics show that children spending a year in the program show stronger positive decision making skills, strong resistance to the use of drugs and alcohol, more respect for peers and those in authority, better grades and are more likely to take part in extracurricular activities.

At the same time, the senior population is seeing strong positive effects.

They report being more active and involved, building a sense of worth and their overall outlook is strong and positive.

Through such programs we hope to work together to build strength in our communities while we share our time and talents to help others.

Got something cool you tried that was successful? Why not tweet your cool intergenerational ideas to #cooligideas? You can also post them to our Intergenerational Connections Facebook Group. We want to highlight innovative age-optimized programs and practices through our blog, social media and weekly e-newsletter! Share the inspiration.