Generation to Generations

Generation to Generations (GEN2GENS) addreses an issue that all communities face: a growing elderly population with golden but untapped experiences. The guiding compass of GEN2GENS is to build friendships to bridge the generation gap and enrich the lives of all involved. In a culture where older retirees are often neglected, we aim to spark lasting friendships across generations. These relationships will provide further opportunities for the elderly to complete their legacies, for youth to explore the lessons of the past, and for both parties to diminish stereotypes with open minds.

GEN2GENS is a year-round project that brings high school students to nursing homes in New Orleans. They participate in a variety of activities, including regular conversational visits, talent shows, and arts & crafts. (Check out photos and videos from past events at www.gen2gens.org - "Events.") The project hosts a traveling Generations Fest, a series of student-run "Variety Shows," speakers, food, and more, at four different affiliated nursing homes each March. (Media from GENSFEST 2012 and 2013 can be found at www.gen2gens.org.)