Lessons Learned from an Intergenerational Volunteer Program: A Case Study of a Shared-Site Model

Abstract

This case study examines an intergenerational volunteer program that bridges the shared space and service-learning models to provide continuity of social contact for the participants over time. The program involves residents of an assisted living facility and a local Girl Scout troop that has been meeting at the facility for more than six years. Findings from focus groups and a content analysis of essays that the Girl Scouts wrote are presented. Benefits for the residents, Girl Scouts, and their parents include increased opportunities for relationship building, learning and mentoring activities, social interaction, and personal changes.

Keywords:

• intergenerational programs
• shared-sites model
• social contact theory
• culture change model