We’re living in the most age-diverse society in human history — and one of the most age-segregated, with young people in school, middle people at work, and older people on the margins. As a result, we’re missing out on the complementary skills and talents people of all ages can bring to the table, the power and energy they can create, the divides they can bridge, the communities and country they can build together.
National service is one of the few institutions that can bring older and younger people together to serve side by side, to produce a windfall of human and social capital for communities and much-needed generational and cultural understanding.
We at CoGenerate are deeply distressed that The U.S. House of Representatives is on the verge of eliminating the 30-year AmeriCorps program that provides Americans of all ages the opportunity to meet community needs together – across the divides of age, race, gender, identity, and background.
Without AmeriCorps, we would lose America’s leading institution dedicated to perpetuating a shared national legacy of service, contribution, and purpose across the lifespan – purpose that contributes mightily to building a resilient and vibrant country.
As AmeriCorps CEO Michael A. Smith said, “Intergenerational service cultivates a legacy of empathy, respect and civic responsibility that is cohesive for a resilient and vibrant America. I see how this coming together enriches our community, strengthens social ties, and builds a sense of respect and understanding. It’s not just a heart thing. It’s a smart thing.”
We couldn’t agree more. We strongly urge you to invest in expanding and strengthening AmeriCorps so that its members can continue to solve pressing community problems in ways that build bridges between generations.
CoGenerate is a national nonprofit working to bridge generational divides.