The Canadian Mental Health Association in Peterborough has been operating
our InterLink program for about 12 years. It is a unique intergenerational
program that brings together children and adults through words and music. It
provides the seniors the opportunity to enjoy the rewards of friendship with
caring children and gives the young people an appreciation and understanding
of older adults. Bonds are created through the sharing of life experiences
and activities.

At the beginning of the school year, seniors and children from a Grade 5-6
classroom begin to write to each other as penpals and learn common music.
They do not meet for the first time until the Christmas concert which
creates some anticipation in both groups. A volunteer choir director teaches
both the seniors and students.

In February, the students present a Valentine's party for their penpals. In
June, there is a final concert at whichever school is participating that
year.

Costs for the program are minimal. We have space in the community donated by
a church for the seniors to meet each week to practice. The school donates
the space for the concerts. CMHA provides t-shirts to the participants and
covers any expenses for the program.

We have found this program to be great for all involved. The stories at the
end of the year about the relationships developed are great to hear. Last
year there were 25 seniors and 32 children involved in the program. Students
identify that they have developed a more positive attitude to older adults,
have improved their written and verbal communication skills and had fun.
Seniors identify that they appreciate the opportunity to share knowledge and
wisdom, had fun, feel worthwhile, and have diminished feelings of isolation
and loneliness.

If you would like any further info, please feel free to contact me directly.

Peter Jones
HP Coordinator
CMHA Peterborough
349A George St., Ste. 206
Peterborough ON  K9H 3P9
(705) 748-6711 x16
(705) 748-2577 Fax
[log in to unmask]
www.peterborough.cmha.on.ca

-----Original Message-----
From: Health Promotion on the Internet [mailto:[log in to unmask]]On
Behalf Of Ken Hoffman
Sent: October 26, 2000 11:08 AM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Intergenerational programs


Hello all,
A question on who might be doing innovative work on the issue of
intergenerational programming ... I would be interested in the experience
and ideas of others in this area, particularly those who have had successful
experiences (or unsuccessful ones) at getting seniors involved in the
schools.

Thanks,
Ken Hoffman