Connecting Generations
through school-based gardens

Connecting Generations evolved out of the Gardens for Growing Healthy Communities research project with an aim to bridge generations and give older adults an opportunity to take an active role in instructing, guiding, and supporting young people. This program brings volunteers into Denver elementary schools to support classroom activities and existing school garden and nutrition programs, with the intention of creating opportunities for healthy eating, active living and social engagement for both youth and older adults alike. Connecting Generations is a collaborative project between the Denver Urban Gardens, the Healthy Neighborhood Network, The University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Denver Public Schools, the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) of Volunteers of America, and other community-based organizations.

"Connecting Generations is a simple program. There are no dues, contracts, or weekly meetings. It is easy way for seniors to connect with kids. The program has brought much richness into my life from both ends of the spectrum. On one side I’ve got a new association of friends, also retired or almost retired, with whom I can share experiences. They are a diverse group of folks I would rarely meet in my own neighborhood. Alison is now a good friend to share ups and downs; Thomas makes me giggle, Leonard makes me think way outside the box; Maria’s extraordinary life experiences just amaze me. On the other side, the children we work with at Fairview Elementary enrich my life every minute we are together. During the school year, I’m privileged to read to groups of children in the library, to practice simple words with kindergarteners, and do some lattice multiplication with the fourth graders. The kids all love unconditional attention from someone who is not a teacher or parent; I so love their unconditional love in return. During the spring and summer we share special times in the garden. We all benefit from Judy Elliott’s gardening lessons but also marvel as children mature, explore, and find calmness. As we gardeners know, gardens can grow more than flowers and vegetables. Gardening is a wonderful wisdom to share. This spring, we hope more folks will join us as we expand out to additional schools and find more ways to give back."

~Judy Douglass, Connecting Generations mentor

For more information, please view the Connecting Generations flyer here.

At this time, Connecting Generations mentors support youth in Harrington and Fairview Elementary Schools on a year-round basis. If you are interested in becoming a mentor or getting involved in the program, please contact Jessica at 303.292.9900, jessica@dug.org.

For the most up-to-date information on Connecting Generations, check out our monthly newsletters and calendar of events…

November 2009 Newsletter
October 2009 Harrington Calendar, Fairview Calendar & Newsletter
September 2009 Harrington Calendar & Fairview Calendar
August 2009 Harrington Calendar, Fairview Calendar & Newsletter
July 2009 Harrington Calendar, Fairview Calendar & Newsletter
June 2009 Calendar & Newsletter
May 2009 Calendar & Newsletter
April 2009 Calendar & Newsletter