Integrating generations

Partnership programme of PZU (Polish Insurance Company) Foundation and Academy for the Development of Philanthropy in Poland


Nowadays the generation gap has become much wider. By running this programme, we would like to show that older and younger people, having different experiences, skills and knowledge, are able to build strong relationships and learn a lot from each other.

Through grant competition, the Selection Commitee will approve the most interesting and well prepared projects based on cooperation between young people and seniors. We will fund 30 NGO projects (lasting 2-4 mths), total funding coming to 300,000 PLN. Both, organisations working for elderly people and for young people can apply.

We would like to support innovative initiatives which attempt to bridge the generation gap while responding to the realities of contemporary life. We intend to co-fund projects which favour mutual learning, exchange of experiences but also sensitize those two groups to the needs, skills and expectations of each other.

This year`s competition is intended as a pilot programme - only 5 provinces of Poland are included, chosen due to the oldest age structure: province mazowieckie, lodzkie, lubelskie, podlaskie, swietokrzyskie. Nevertheless, we hope that in the following years our programme will include all provinces of Poland.

The most interesting projects will be presented in a book, to be published at the end of 2005. We hope that this publication will help us to promote original and creative ideas for integrating generations as well as encouraging other organisations to take up such initiatives.

Why do we need inter-generational programs?

Polish society, like other European populations, is ageing. Therefore, it is essential to be more open to the needs, knowledge and skills of elderly people. Moreover, it is necessary to understand the specifics of the aging process and to overcome the fear of old age.

Nowadays people live longer, often enjoying good health to an advanced age. Older people can still take an active part in social life - share their time and experience with others. Facing up to the challenges posed by an ageing society requires from both youth and seniors mutual understanding, sensitivity and respect for the needs and expectations of different age groups.

Furthermore, it is necessary to try and change the negative stereotypes of old age. It seems clear that the media in general does not consider the elderly very newsworthy, with the possible exceptions of negative stories connected to disability, illness and poverty. A more positive image of growing old would help to develop bonds and relationships between the two generations and encourage elderly people to lead a more active life.

Inter-generational initiatives show old age in an interesting and innovative way. Promotion of such activities and programmes is therefore a chance to change the image of growing old and to increase acceptance of this stage of our lives.