'Meet My Hamilton': An intergenerational social program
As it enters its third year and a new hybrid format, ‘Meet My Hamilton’ will give students and older community members the opportunity to learn from each other, and share their interests and life experiences. This intergenerational programming will provide students with a unique volunteer opportunity to add to their resume while they gain experience working and communicating with older adults. According to our participants last year, it is also a great opportunity to stay social, meet new people, and learn about other people’s unique experiences.
Through a combination of in-person and virtual intergenerational activities, students will engage with community members aged 65+. Programming will include casual conversation, as well as organized games and programs, and provide opportunities to explore various topics and activities together. Participants will be provided with a brief orientation and welcome video to best facilitate making these connections.
Ultimately, we hope that this programming will give students and their conversation partners a chance to establish new friendships and learn from each other’s life experiences.
Eligibility
This program is open to any student currently enrolled at McMaster University. This program may particularly appeal to students who are interested in community engagement, volunteering and leadership, healthy aging and working with older adults. However, even if your area of focus doesn’t include any of the above, ‘Meet My Hamilton’ offers a unique opportunity for any student looking to meet new people in the Hamilton community.
WHEN?
Fall programming sessions will take place every other week, from September to December. Participants are welcome to continue with the program in the winter semester as well. While we expect most people will want to chat for around 45 minutes to an hour, online programming allows everyone the flexibility to chat a little longer as well! In-person events will be held Thursday afternoons and happen monthly.
WHERE?
Meet My Hamilton’ will be offered through Zoom where students and community members will have the option to participate through video or phone. New this year we will also be offering in-person coffee hours and trips with both our older adult and student participants.
What will you get out of the program?
Learn new skills such as:
- Community engagement
- Effective communication
- Intergenerational relationship building
A large percentage of Canadians will soon be over 65 years of age, and building strong social connections with this age group will position participating students well for future career opportunities involving older adults. Students will receive a Certificate of Attendance and be able to complete one of the pillars of the McMaster Passport for Aging Education (macPAGE) certificate program using their hours from this program, which will help them share the skills they have learned with future employers and opportunities. This program will give all participants the unique opportunity to develop intergenerational communication skills, and connect with their community.
Are you interested?
Allison Dubé | Project Manager
Email: warda2@mcmaster.ca