Programs Menu
School Programs
Junior High
Our Junior High volunteer programs are designed to provide structure and support to what is often a first volunteer experience for many of the students. For instance, the students all gather in a central area for the visit with the seniors and supervision by the LINKages staff is provided (a lot of supervision at the beginning and less as the year progresses). The visits for the Junior High students take place over the lunch hour on a bi-weekly basis, and they receive two-way transportation between the school and the care facility.
Many of the visits will have planned activities incorporated in them to aid with the bonding process. The activities might include:
- games,
- crafts,
- reading,
- storytelling,
- talent shows,
- movies and
- the writing of the senior’s biography.
A junior high student provides a 'true' testimony for intergenerational programs:
“Ever since my grandfather passed away of Alzheimer’s, there has been an empty space in my heart. I have greatly missed him over the past few years. My senior helped me fill that space with happiness and joy. The seniors help us reflect on life and how it works. They can give us advice and wisdom on hard choices. Many of my decisions have been made by remembering my senior’s insights and stories – and these decisions have benefited me.”
 Junior high students at a residence for Halloween |
Senior High
In general, Senior High students are more comfortable and experienced with what is involved in volunteering, as well as with the potential challenges involved with interacting with seniors. For these reasons there is less supervision by LINKages and the staff take on more of a support role providing ongoing information, support and advice as necessary. There are also activities that are designed to ensure that interactions are positive; that the pairings between seniors and students are compatible. Students typically visit after school hours and on the weekends and they are encouraged to provide true companionship for their senior.
 Two senior high students help to decorate a frame |
Calgary After School
In 2010 LINKages partnered with the City of Calgary and began operating four new programs for youth after school. The framework for the next three years will align with our mission by building social networks, reduce social isolation, strengthen communities, and encourage positive development and activities for youth between the ages of 12 -16.
It is clear that the City of Calgary wants to make a significant difference by working in partnerships with non-profit organizations and recently made a three year commitment to support our high-quality, research based intergenerational programs. At LINKages, we know the positive outcomes that are created when generations come together. Connecting older adults and young people during "critical hours" (3 - 6 PM) has proven to reduce crime and improve neighbourhood conditions and relationships. The four new programs will appeal to a multicultural population and will provide constructive use of time, increased adult role models, and increased school participation. LINKages is grateful to have this unique opportunity and looks forward to reporting on the outcomes of these new initiatives.
Student Training
LINKages provides the training and support necessary to prepare the hundreds of young people that are to visit regularly with seniors. We encourage meaningful interaction between the students, their peers and their senior friends. We often challenge the students to maximize their growth potential and we encourage them to enhance their leadership, communications and personal development. We also aim to increase the students’ understanding, sensitivity and empathy for issues affecting seniors, which helps to bridge the gap between generations. In addition, LINKages Society is working to develop tools, training materials and educational workshops to encourage other community groups to consider the merits of intergenerational programming.
 Training is very important... and can involve eating jello |
Program Handbooks
The manuals contain information on what is needed to develop a successful relationship with a senior and to have a satisfying experience while in the LINKages' program. The best resource for student volunteers however, are the LINKages' coordinators.
Junior High Program Handbook - in PDF format
Senior High Program Handbook - in PDF format
Training Material
A brief look at what dementia is and what its symptoms are.
What is Dementia? - in PDF format
Introducing: Mrs. Appleby
Mrs. Appleby chats about the proper methods to address and interact with seniors.