SENIOR CITIZENS SCHOOL VOLUNTEER PROGRAM

  GENERATIONS TOGETHER
University of Pittsburgh
121 University Place
Suite 300
Pittsburgh, PA 15260

The students have a better understanding of older persons. They've learned to work and share with them.                                  -Teacher

P R O G R A M   O V E R V I E W

Generations Together, an intergenerational studies program at the University of Pittsburgh, developed the SENIOR CITIZENS SCHOOL VOLUNTEER PROGRAM to foster intergenerational, school-based experiences that promote mutual growth and understanding between the young and the old. By involving older adults as volunteers in classrooms, senior citizens gain meaningful roles in society and students enhance their academic, social and emotional growth.

P A R T I C I P A N T S

• Volunteers age 55 and older from various socioeconomic and racial backgrounds who enjoy working with youth in a educational setting one half day per week.

• Teachers who elect to participate in their district's program.

• Students in grades K-12.

B E N E F I T S

STUDENTS...

• progress academically and improve interpersonal skills.

• develop meaningful relationships with older adults.

• gain a sense of history and cultural heritage.

• increase their understanding of aging.

TEACHERS...

• receive classroom support for individual students providing them additional time for group work.

• utilize the vast untapped skills and experiences of elders to enhance educational effectiveness and quality of life in the classroom.

VOLUNTEERS...

• establish friendships.

• have an opportunity to share their skills and experience.

• develop  new positive perceptions toward youth and their local schools.

• increase their own knowledge and skills.

SCSVP has been recognized by

• The Pennsylvania Department of Education as an exemplary program.

• The National School Volunteer Program for its quality work in cross-generational school programs.

• Generations United as a pioneer model in intergenerational programs.

I M P L E M E N T A T I O N

1. Approval by District

2. Recruitment of teachers and volunteers

3. Orientation, training, and placement

4. Program maintenance and evaluation

After one year of training and supervision by the Generations Together staff, the program is established and can be integrated into a school system.

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