Getting
Started
A perfect acronym for intergenerational development because it
gives specific steps for started. The word TALISMAN
connotes a magical object or quality just as individuals involved
with intergenerational programs often comment about the amazing
impact. "It is energizing." "I feel a part of something
that will go on and on.
The following points--TALISMAN--offer a structure for
intergenerational development.
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Thinking
Develop a clear picture about what you want to do. Why have
you decided to get involved with intergenerational activities?
Is it because You want to bring generations together? Old and
young have much to contribute to each other? You have a need
that old and young could accomplish more effectively working
together? Or do you have another reason. Think about what you
want to do. Are you thinking about tutoring, mentoring,
writing, or an environmental activity? For additional ideas
see
Model
Programs.
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Asking
Ask for help. The squeaky wheel gets the grease. After reflecting
on the intergenerational experience, you have an idea about
what you would like to do. Now you need to find out what the
older folks and younger people would like to do. Involve them
in the planning. If you have a problem or need, involve them
in figuring out how to solve the problem. Young people and older
folks say the most compelling motivator is someone welcoming
them to be involved. "Just ask!"
See Recruitment.
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Listening
After listening to older adults and young people, you will
be more focused on the expectations of those to be involved
and how it fits with what you would like to accomplish. The
greatest persuaders are your ears. By listening to older adults
and young people, you will construct something that is attractive
to both. Intergenerational experts say that listening to program
participants is the single most important determination of continuity
of a program. Emphasize the talents and resources that your
partners bring, rather than the needs. ( Resource
Inventory ) Listen to their expectations. As you
share information this is a good time to write an outline of
who will do what.
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Information Sharing
Involve and inform key people whose support might affect the
success of the program. Remember, involvement fosters commitment!
Circulate information about your intergenerational development
to the media and your administration and emphasize its newsworthiness
as well as addressing priorities of education and the community.
Publicizing
Your Programs.
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Momentum
Building
Start Small--Start Easy. If you have involved young people
and older adults in the planning, you have some great ideas
for implementation and probably some enthusiastic teams of old
and young ready to run with the project. The easiest beginning
for an intergenerational encounter is an interview between two
generations to learn more about each other and pique their knowledge
about each other. Ask them what kind of preparation they need
for the activity. Preparation
Discuss individual responsibilities, expectations, and differences
and similarities between young and old. See Interview.
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Asking
Ongoing and open communication will help solve problems before
they start and give you great insights into the wonderful things
happening between old and young. Ask students, older adults,
and planners to evaluate their intergenerational activities.
What went well. What could be improved? They need time for discussion--some
that are between generations, others that give older adults
a session together and students their session together also.
Open lines of communication will help keep the activity on track
and help to anticipate problems. See Evaluation
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Nurturing
Recognize the contributions of older folks, students, and others
who have been involved. Use this event as a first step that
leads to ongoing programming and ultimately a long term plan for
intergenerational community involvement. The volunteer experience
itself carries many rewards - feelings of involvement, socialization,
and importance. Though these feelings alone may be enough to
maintain motivation, periodic recognition of volunteer efforts
is a critical step in keeping actively involved. Rewards maintain
momentum and stimulate consistent productivity. Recognition
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