Conquering Ageism: NYC Intergenerational Initiatives Awarded ‘Programs Of Merit’ Distinction
NYC Intergenerational Initiatives Awarded ‘Programs of Merit’ Distinction
Program of Merit Designation Shows NYC’s Commitment to Reducing Ageism
Initiatives Originated from the work of the Cabinet for Older New Yorkers
Editor’s note: NYC Department for the Aging announced their accomplishments in 2024 for the elderly community in New York City, and prepares to celebrate its 50th year.
According to Generations United, the following information about the program and its benefits can be found:
Benefits*
Programs that are selected to receive either designation will receive:
- National recognition for outstanding work, including publicity through Generations United’s website, e-newsletter, and social media outlets.
- Participation and acknowledgment in a virtual showcase of selected programs.
- Letter of support from Generations United, upon request.
- The official logo for use on websites and other materials; and
- A certificate recognizing this accomplishment.
As a recognized Program of Distinction or Program of Merit, recipients represent the highest standards of intergenerational programs and will become a part of a distinguished national network of programs
New York, NY – Two intergenerational initiatives led by the Department for the Aging (NYC Aging), Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD), and Department of Education (NYC Public Schools) have been designated as Programs of Merit by Generations United. The initiatives, My NY Story and the Anti-Ageism Resource Guide, stem from the work from the Cabinet for Older New Yorkers.
The Cabinet for Older New Yorkers was created by Mayor Eric Adams in 2022 to mandate coordination between agencies and leverage resources to shape current and future services for older New Yorkers.
The My NY Story program takes place at 13 co-located NYCHA sites with both an older adult center and DYCD’s Cornerstone program. It fosters community leadership, problem-solving, and intergenerational connections. Through storytelling, participants build relationships and challenge ageist stereotypes by sharing their experiences. The program culminates in a community celebration where participants present their stories.
NYC Aging and NYC Public Schools developed the Anti-Ageism Resource Guide, which was piloted in 13 Brooklyn High Schools under the Intergenerational Connections to Fight Ageism initiative. The educational program helps students recognize ageism and understand how they can challenge harmful stereotypes. In January, the Resource Guide’s expansion was announced, with at least 40 elementary, middle, and high schools across the city set to implement it through a grant from Next50.
“The Designation of Merit from Generations United recognizes New York City’s commitment to tackling ageism head-on,” said NYC Aging Commissioner Lorraine Cortés-Vázquez. “Age discrimination touches everyone. When we educate young people about its harms and create opportunities for intergenerational connections, we break down misconceptions and stop limiting people based on age.”
These intergenerational programs are among just 33 across the country to receive this designation. Generations United began awarding programs in 2010 to recognize excellence and celebrate their diversity. An external panel of experts selects designees based on evidence-based standards, including participant preparation, staff training, partner engagement, and evaluation data.
Intergenerational programs foster cooperation, interaction, and exchange between people of different generations, allowing them to share talents and resources while building meaningful relationships that strengthen their communities.
“We are thrilled to celebrate two outstanding programs of the NYC Cabinet for Older New Yorkers for their commitment to high-quality intergenerational practices,” said Donna Butts, Executive Director of Generations United. “Earning this distinction is a remarkable achievement. The Intergenerational Program Certification is the only nationally recognized seal of approval for intergenerational programs in the U.S., and the rigorous application and review process make this recognition especially meaningful.”
“From The Mayor’s older adult town halls and roundtable discussions led by Commissioner Lorraine Cortés-Vázquez to project-based activities, and digital storytelling, DYCD is proud to have developed amazing opportunities for our youth to form long lasting relationships with aging adults,” said NYC Department of Youth and Community Development Commissioner Keith Howard. “We’re proud to be partners in fostering an environment where our youth appreciate the wisdom and life experiences of our most treasured New Yorkers.”
“Our young people are the future leaders and changemakers of our communities, and initiatives like the Anti-Ageism Resource Guide help us prepare them to combat prejudice and ageism throughout their lives,” said Schools Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos. “Our schools foster important lessons and meaningful conversations, and I am so proud to see a valuable program like this formally recognized for its impact. Thank you to our partners at the NYC Department for the Aging and Commissioner Cortés-Vázquez for their continued collaboration.”
About Generations United: For more than three decades, Generations United’s mission has been to improve the lives of children, youth, and older adults through intergenerational collaboration, public policies, and programs for the enduring benefit of all. We have been the catalyst for policies and practices stimulating cooperation and collaboration among generations, evoking the vibrancy, energy, and sheer productivity that result when people of all ages come together.
Banner Image: Program seals. Image Credit – Generations United
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