Intergenerational Program, Minneapolis Community Education Older Adult Program

Description

The Intergenerational Program is one component of the Older Adult Program in the Minneapolis Public Schools, offered city-wide to adults, 55 and older, through Community Education. The Intergenerational Program was initiated in the 1970s by Minneapolis Community Education. Due to changes in our society, educators increasingly became aware that many children were not building relationships with elders and had negative attitutdes towards aging. Likewise, many older adults who enjoyed children did not have the opportunity to know children. Classroom teachers appreciate the support of Intergenerational Program volunteers. These older adults are dedicated to students' learning. They enrich academic learning and believe in the potential of the studnets. As role models, they lovingly and firmly impart how important learning is in their own lives. Sharing with students their own life experiences, they bring history from their personal point of view