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About Us
Introduction
LINKages develops, coordinates and supervises activities that create opportunity for interaction between youth and seniors in a safe, structured, caring and learning environment. We have established proven methods for developing mutually-beneficial relationships between seniors and young people, a factor vital in the development of successful intergenerational programs and services.
Our activities and programs increase cooperation, interaction and exchanges between two generations. It involves the sharing of skills, knowledge and experience between young and old. Research confirms that intergenerational exchanges are instrumental in facilitating positive and substantial relationships between those who would not otherwise come into contact with each other.
The LINKages videos provide an informative and thorough look at what LINKages has to offer and how it has changed the lives of many youth and seniors alike.
 A senior high student visits her friend |
Our Vision
LINKages’ vision is a community where youth and older adults connect for social contact, support and learning.
Our Mission
LINKages will foster interactions that promote friendships and understanding between youth and older adults.
Goals
- LINKages aims to connect young people and seniors in ways that are mutually beneficial – these generations learn from each other.
- Our programs are structured to overcome stereotypes and encourage personal development – we provide ongoing support to participants.
- Connecting generations enhances self-worth and creates interest in community involvement – we encourage the merits of volunteering.
Belief
Our belief is that Albertans – of all ages - need to be valued, respected and appreciated for their experiences and potential; and we invite citizen engagement and positive contributions that enhance our communities.
Achievements
LINKages is a community based registered charity that was originally founded as the Friends of Seniors in 1994. This program has been recognized for the successful implementation of programs that:
- build bridges between the generations;
- decrease negative attitudes and myths;
- promote a greater understanding and respect for generations;
- and instill benefits of citizen engagement.
About the Need and Defining the Problem
Social connections between generations are no longer a natural occurrence in today's North American society. We have lost that sense of community and the ability to transfer wisdom between ages. People in our communities are usually segregated by age and this can create unhealthy isolation for older adults and prevent young people from understanding the full cycle of life or experiencing the wisdom of our elders.
Research consistently demonstrates that young people grow up healthier when there are relationships outside a family context that can provide extra attention, guidance and support. Similar research has found that older people working with children and youth feel connected, valued, and invested in the future. Unfortunately, as a society we are moving in a different direction as a result of family mobility and fast changing technology creating a new and wider generation gap. Youth spend their days in schools, while many older adults live or socialize in age-isolated facilities or programs.
In both our families and our communities, we need to redefine the roles and responsibilities of people at each stage of life and create ways to strengthen the ties that bind us.
Our Programs and Services
LINKages partners hundreds of Junior and Senior High students with local retirement residences and lodges and helps them develop friendships in a year long process. LINKages also has a number of new community initiatives that recruit youth throughout the city of Calgary and partner them with isolated or lonely seniors living independently.
LINKages' programs and services include:
- Junior and Senior High programs
- YACS (Young Adults Connecting with Seniors)
- Silver Surfers
- Rural Initiatives
- Community Training
 Students at a training session learn about seniors |