Kendal at Oberlin

EDITOR’s NOTE: Each week, we’ll 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 10 of our series, we feature Kendal at Oberlin, an Ohio-based nonprofit and retirement community that promote civic involvement with the wider community and social relationships.


(Read parts one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight and nine.)

Through their residents’ work with Kendal Early LearningCenter, Kendal at Oberlin’s multifaceted intergenerational program reaches the larger community of Oberlin and Lorain County featuring an onsite Early Learning Center.

Kendal residents and staff play a significant role in mentoring students from more than nine educational institutions. Our community believes in the commitment to mentor the next generation.

Examples of Intergenerational Experiences include:

·    the one-to-one support of a resident volunteer during the morning preschool curriculum (i.e. a special story in quiet area, or help to create a John Deere tractor from a cardboard box, an extra pair of hands on a walk to the Russia Township Park or learning about the life of the honey bee from a special visit from an on-site resident beekeeper.)

·    A trip on the Kendal bus to the public library, or a field trip to a local apple orchard or one of the Lorain County metro parks with resident volunteers supporting hands-on learning.

·    Joining our Stephen's Care friends to make Green Eggs and Ham and celebrate Dr.Suess' birthday or enjoying an art or music experiences planned through the creative arts department.

The Early Learning Center opened at the same time as the Kendal at Oberlin retirement community and focuses on children 18 months – 5 years old. The Center creates opportunities for residents to continue their passion for teaching young children, as well as being with surrogate grandchildren.

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. Youth Jumpstart Grantees can share ideas here. Or just text us through the Facebook Messenger 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.

AGE to age

(PHOTO: Joe Rossi) Kateisha and Tom.
Learn more about these two.

EDITOR'S NOTE: Each week, we'll feature intergenerational program ideas that were tried and successful. This new 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 three of our series, we feature the Northland Foundation’s AGE to age program, a 2012 Program of Distinction designee. (Read parts one and two)

Bringing generations together in an intergenerational grassroots initiative, AGE to age is designed to connect youth with older adults to build relationships and enhance their communities.

It certainly enhanced Rita Baresh’s quality of life. The 70-something volunteer, of Moose Lake, Minn., divided her time between the Moose Lake KIDS PLUS and AGE to age initiatives, resulting from the Northland Foundation’s partnership with Moose Lake community members.

A 2012 article in the Northland Foundation’s newsletter captured Baresh’s excitement.  “When I see a child from KIDS PLUS or AGE to age Gener-Reader at the super market or in the school halls,” she said, “and they run up for that extra hug or say, ‘When am I going to see you next?’ – wow, it is beyond words.”

This initiative provides an avenue for different generations to overcome age stereotypes, establish friendships, and pool their strengths for civic good.

Over 1,200 people age 55+, 2,400 youth and 1,300 adults from the generations in between have been touched by this program, and momentum continues to grow.

AGE to age’s “secret of success” lies in nurturing respectful relationships and empowering communities to embrace the unique talents of all ages.

“It is inspiring to hear all that the AGE to age sites have been accomplishing, as well as learn of intergenerational activities taking place in other KIDS PLUS Communities,” explained Lynn Haglin, Northland Foundation Vice President/KIDS PLUS Director. “We are lucky to live in such an exceptional place where all age groups are valued.” 

Got something cool you tried that was successful? Then here's your chance to get on our blog and get promoted through our social media and weekly e-newsletter! We want to hear from you.