As part of Generations United’s diverse intergenerational programs initiative, the organization conducted a national survey of programs that connect younger and older people. A report from those findings was released to highlight the intentional and creative ways that organizations are combatting systemic racism by prioritizing the voices and lived experiences of diverse staff and participants in their practices.
Five recommendations emerged from the Generations United survey and are built into the report with explanation and examples from across the country. This work should be considered by age- and dementia friendly communities as potential strategies to improve equity in those initiatives.
The five recommendations are:
- Embracing cultural inclusivity is a journey. Don’t be afraid to be adaptable, flexible, and allow time for the journey to unfold.
- Be intentional, specific, and targeted about uplifting diversity. All levels of the organization need to be held accountable to truly make this a “team” effort.
- Be proactive in seeking out allies and collaborators who bring a fresh and diverse perspective to your program and can serve as program ambassadors.
- Equip participants in diverse intergenerational programs with the tools to enact change in their communities.
- Diversify your DEI approach. Creativity and flexibility are instrumental in the implementation of organizational DEI practices and protocols.
More information and examples of this work are available in the full report here.