Welcome to Next Generation 'Connect'

how to videos

We have challenged our New Hope family to Connect with young people to help them feel Known, Valued and Loved, and we want to walk along side you and give help and guidance where needed. We've developed a series of 'How To' videos so you can hear about ideas and ways to connect. Welcome to Connect University!

First Contact

Building the connection

Maintaining the Connection

Playing the Long Game

Feedback

Testimonials

Source:

“Two demographics — children in need of support and adults with the time and inclination to step into roles that provide it — fit together like the pieces of a jigsaw puzzle.“ (p. 2)

“Urie Bronfenbrenner, child psychologist and co-founder of the Head Start preschool program, passionately advanced the idea that children blossom not just in the embrace of parents, but also from the commitment of other adults who encourage and mentor them.

“Bronfenbrenner’s idea, straightforward yet profound, holds that a child’s success in life is tied to meaningful relationships. And it invites one obvious and important question: Where do we find adults with the commitment, time and skill to engage with youth in these relationships that are so important to their development?” (p. 7)

“Older people are well positioned to step into the role of champion and mentor, either complementing family relationships or providing important support where family structures are weak. They offer the emotional stability that improves with age, and the wisdom that grows as experience deepens.” (p. 9)

“And the benefits are not one-directional. Research shows that pairing young and older people has positive consequences for each. In promoting the well-being of the next generation, older adults experience fulfillment and purpose in their own lives. This mutual benefit is perhaps the most compelling reason for programs that connect young and old.” (p.9)

Stanford Center on Longevity, et al. (2014). Hidden in Plain Sight: How Intergenerational Relationships Can Transform Our Future. Stanford Center on Longevity. longevity3.stanford.edu/hidden-in-plain-sight-how-intergenerational-relationships-can-transform-our-future/.