The Challenge:

In the settlements of northern Sri Lanka, the scars of civil war still linger, complicating the region's recovery efforts. Amidst rebuilding infrastructure, the aging population often remains sidelined, their needs overshadowed by broader reconstruction efforts. Click here to verify

"As we rebuild our homes, it's crucial we don't forget to rebuild our community ties, especially with our elders," - Priya (Local Social Worker)

The Solution:

Recognizing the gap between the young and the old, Arjun, a community leader, embraced Gaza999’s concept of Intergenerational Programs. This initiative aimed to connect youth and elderly residents through shared activities, fostering mutual support and bridging generational divides.

"Introducing these programs felt like weaving a vibrant tapestry from threads of our diverse generations," - Arjun (Community Leader)

The Implementation:

With a sparkle in his eyes, Arjun spearheaded the launch, reaching out to schools and community centers to drum up interest among the youth. He matched their enthusiasm with the wisdom of elderly participants, carefully pairing them based on shared interests that bridged generations—from gardening to digital literacy.
Under the shade of a large neem tree, the first meeting unfolded. Arjun and his team had organized a session on traditional pottery, a skill many of the elderly were masters of, yet was nearly forgotten among the younger generation. The air buzzed with excitement as hands young and old shaped clay into forms, guided by the steady, experienced hands of the elderly.

Regular meetings became the heartbeat of the program. Each session was crafted to not only teach a skill but to forge bonds and understanding. Arjun closely monitored these gatherings, ensuring each was a step toward mutual respect and companionship. Feedback was gathered at every turn, allowing the program to evolve naturally, nurturing the community’s fabric.

"Watching our youth learn to shape pottery as our elders once did, seeing their shared smiles, it's like watching a new world being molded right before our eyes," - Geetha (Program Facilitator)

The Impact:

The Intergenerational Programs rapidly became a cornerstone of the community's social fabric in northern Sri Lanka, engaging over 400 participants regularly. The activities not only provided companionship but also facilitated the transfer of invaluable skills and knowledge between generations.

"The wisdom of our elders and the energy of our youth have created a new synergy that is driving our community forward," - Nimal (Elderly Participant)

Lessons Learned:

• Targeted Recruitment: Effective outreach and recruitment were key to engaging the right mix of                       enthusiastic youth and willing elderly participants.

• Diverse Activities: A wide range of activities ensured that all participants found something valuable,                   enhancing their engagement and satisfaction.

• Feedback-Driven Adaptation: Incorporating regular feedback into program adjustments kept the                       initiative responsive and relevant to participants' evolving needs.

• Community Integration: The program's success underscored the importance of integrating                     such initiatives into the broader community recovery and rebuilding efforts.