NHSA Programs and Initiatives - Bridging the Generations

Announcing the Bridging the Generations Information Modules!

Bridging the Generations Information Modules are resource guides that will provide Head Start and senior volunteer program directors, volunteer coordinators, senior volunteers, and others with tools, strategies, and guidelines for creating healthy partnerships and implementing effective practices that further local partnerships. They are not intended to be prescriptive. Instead, they present supplemental resources that support program guidelines already developed by each organization.

Initially, Bridging the Generations: Senior Volunteers in Head Start Centers began as a national training program. The National Head Start Association, in partnership with National Association of Foster Grandparent Program Directors (NAFGPD), and National Association of Retired Senior Volunteer Program Directors (NARSVPD), developed a five-module, curriculum training manual. As the training program drew to a close, the partners recognized that the modules could be transformed into a resource book to offer guidance in developing and expanding meaningful intergenerational programs like Bridging the Generations. Although these modules were developed for intergenerational programs, there are many valuable suggestions that may benefit other volunteer programs as well.

The five modules contain user-friendly information and effective practices that focus on creating healthy intergenerational partnerships and maximizing senior volunteers’ contributions. They will provide many ideas for partnership development and implementation. The resource lists include books or Web sites that can be used as reference materials. Each module can also be used as a separate resource; therefore, some of the information contained in one module may be repeated in another.

Permission is granted to use module content for purposes of program development, education, and training. To further enhance the quality of module content, we encourage program directors, volunteer coordinators, senior volunteers, and others to share their insights, ideas, and suggestions. We would also like to hear about how you involve senior volunteers in your program as well as your successes related to seniors working with children and families. Please submit information to:

National Head Start Association
Program Development Division
Bridging the Generations
1651 Prince Street
Alexandria, VA 22314

The Bridging the Generations Training Manual was converted to these information modules with the support of Administrative Support Associates, writing consultants who specialize in business communications. The principal consultant for this project was Shawn E. Gilleylen. For more information on Administrative Support Associates write to P.O Box 12411, Arlington, VA 22219, call (202) 352-3166, or e-mail sgilleylen@yahoo.com.