Oslo, Norway & Poznań, Poland – An innovative project aimed at bridging the generation gap is making waves in Norway and Poland. “Volunteering Connects Generations,” a collaboration between Norway’s Norsensus Mediaforum and Poland’s CREO, is proving that volunteering can be a powerful tool for fostering understanding, empathy, and stronger communities.
Funded by the EEA Grants through the Active Citizens Fund, the project focuses on creating meaningful connections between young and old through joint volunteer initiatives. While facing initial recruitment challenges in urban areas, the team strategically shifted its focus to the rural community of Volda, Norway, where they found fertile ground for intergenerational engagement.
“We learned that sometimes you need to look beyond the big cities to find communities eager to embrace new initiatives,” says Jakob Gunaydin, director of Norsensus. “Volda has been an incredible example of how intergenerational collaboration can thrive with the right support and opportunities.”
In Volda, young participants experienced the realities of aging through immersive aging simulation workshops, gaining first-hand insight into age-related challenges. Meanwhile, senior citizens engaged in stimulating virtual reality experiences, showcasing how technology can bridge generational divides.
The project also spurred the creation of two impactful, community-led initiatives: a community garden, designed as a space for intergenerational learning and activity, and an “Activity Friend” program, recruiting volunteers to provide companionship and support to elderly individuals with dementia.
“We were inspired by the energy and commitment of the participants. They identified real needs within their community and developed creative solutions that will have a lasting impact,” states the project manager Imen Habes.
Challenges relating to privacy and data protection required some adaptations to the initial communication strategy. Despite these hurdles, the team successfully leveraged social media platforms to share compelling stories of volunteers and promote the project’s mission.
“Volunteering Connects Generations” provides a blueprint for building more inclusive and resilient communities. By empowering individuals of all ages to connect, learn, and serve together, the project is demonstrating the transformative potential of intergenerational collaboration. The results highlight the significance of shifting focus from urban areas, if required and seeking fertile grounds in rural areas.
About the EEA Grants and Active Citizens Fund:
The EEA Grants are financed by Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway. The Grants contribute to reducing social and economic disparities and to strengthening bilateral relations with 15 EU countries in Central and Southern Europe and the Baltics. The Active Citizens Fund supports civil society organizations in these countries.
