On October 12, Encore.org is changing its name to CoGenerate and doubling down on a strategy for social impact we call cogeneration — where older and younger generations work together to solve our nation’s most pressing problems.
If you’re involved or interested in cogeneration, welcome! If you want to get involved but don’t know where to start, we’ve included 10 ways for you to learn more about the power of cogeneration and start connecting across generations for positive impact.
- Connect with us. Make sure you’ve signed up for the CoGenerate newsletter and are following us on TikTok, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook. That way you’ll be sure to hear our latest news, events and opportunities to engage!
- Watch three short videos for inspiration. Our founder and Co-CEO Marc Freedman gives his Brief But Spectacular take on making the most of the multigenerational moment for PBS NewsHour. What does it mean to cogenerate? showcases what 8 inspiring leaders have to say about the power of intergenerational collaboration. Connecting 50 Years of Pride features LGBTQ+ elders and youth coming together to talk about the Stonewall Uprising and what Pride means to them.
- Immerse yourself in intergenerational entertainment. Hacks is about a heart-warming and hilarious friendship between a legendary Las Vegas comedian and her 25-year-old co-writer. Only Murders in the Building is a true crime comedy-drama anchored in the cross-generational collaboration between Selena Gomez, Martin Short and Steve Martin. Keep on Keepin’ On features an intergenerational friendship between music legend and teacher Clark Terry, 89 and Justin Kauflin, a 23-year-old, blind piano prodigy.
- Use these guides. Generations Over Dinner invites you to bring as many generations together as possible over dinner for meaningful conversation. The Bridging Differences Playbook by the Greater Good Science Center at UC Berkeley includes research-based strategies to promote positive dialogue and understanding. Becoming a Better Mentor from MENTOR helps you better support and empower young people.
- Read these books. How to Live Forever: The Enduring Power of Connecting the Generations, by CoGenerate founder and co-CEO, Marc Freedman. Together: The Healing Power of Human Connection in a Sometimes Lonely World, by the U.S. Surgeon General, Vivek Murthy. OK Boomer, Let’s Talk: How My Generation Got Left Behind, by Jill Filipovic.
- Cogenerate online. Since the pandemic, many organizations and efforts have emerged aimed at connecting generations virtually. Here are some of our favorites: Third Act is mobilizing older Americans to stand with young activists fighting for climate change and democracy. Eldera is connecting elders and young people for virtual mentoring. Big & Mini is focused on ending loneliness through connecting younger and older people for friendly video chats. Sages & Seekers offers programs and events that allow for meaningful, intergenerational conversations. Hey Auntie is a new startup focused on connecting Black women across ages and life stages — sign up for their newsletter for updates. Civic Saturday brings people together for purposeful events that rebuild faith in one another and our democracy. Raise your hand to become a mentor through LinkedIn.
- Find an in-person volunteer opportunity. VolunteerMatch is one of the largest online listings and allows you to do targeted keyword searches. If you’re over 50, check out AARP’s Create the Good. If you want to help out locally, contact nearby food banks and soup kitchens, or organize a neighborhood clean-up.
- Support our Innovation Fellows. For the past three years, we have selected 15 social entrepreneurs who are bringing generations together to solve important problems like climate change, the housing crisis, loneliness and more. These organizations are often seeking all kinds of support, from volunteers to funding. Browse our three cohorts of fellows here, check out their bios and pitch videos, and reach out to express interest in supporting the organizations you spark to!
- Become an Encore Fellow. These 6-12 month fellowships are a fantastic opportunity to work alongside other generations within a nonprofit focused on something you care about. If you’re a seasoned professional who wants to help a nonprofit succeed while earning a stipend, learn more here.
- Become an Encore Physician. If you’re a retired physician who lives in the San Francisco Bay Area and wants to use your experience to help underserved patients, this one-year commitment will have you working with different generations at community health clinics and treating people two days/week.
Did we forget to include something that’s a great way for people to cogenerate? Let us know at [email protected]
