“What should young people do with their lives today? Many things, obviously. But the most daring thing is to create stable communities in which the terrible disease of loneliness can be cured.”

— Kurt Vonnegut

At Joining Generations Inc., we believe that young people should take an active role in connecting with past generations to ensure their well-being in addition to promoting shared understanding through service. Mentorship, both to each other and the seniors we serve, is at the very heart of this mission. Joining Generations is forever grateful to our first chapter at Reedy High School for setting and holding to this principle of mentorship. These officers were instrumental in the development of 2 new chapters this year.

• Joining Generations’ volunteers are looking for the satisfaction that comes with a long-term commitment rather than a one-off activity.

• Our volunteers are given extensive training, most notably in the area of interpersonal skills. Knowing how to engage the residents is as important as simply engaging them. Making a connection is certainly important, but Joining Generations strives to ensure that these connections are meaningful and leave both volunteers and seniors looking forward to the next interaction.

• Joining Generations champions passion among its volunteers. We give them the opportunity and training to make the most of their call to service.

• Our volunteers are constantly striving for improvement. Not just satisfied to “be there,” Joining Generations’ volunteers are both accepting of and eager to give feedback on their experiences, with the end goal of continual improvement.

• Our “shadowing” system ensures that our volunteers are constantly improving and preparing themselves to take on more responsibility at future events.

• Each of our volunteers undergoes a thorough background check to ensure they are proper stewards of the organization and its mission.

• Leading a Joining Generations chapter requires a 10-month commitment

• Chapter leaders assume responsibility for all chapter officers and volunteers

• Joining Generations’ chapter leaders will train volunteers on interpersonal skills, leadership development and project management

• Chapter leaders commit to hosting a minimum of one event per month for the senior facility that chapter serves

• In addition to parliamentary leadership of chapter meetings, leaders will also be responsible for overseeing all fundraising activities undertaken by their chapter

To learn more about starting a chapter, send us an email through the Contact Us page.