New Report Calls for Intergenerational Approach

In light of the rapidly changing demographics of American society, grantmakers should fund programs that cut across age divisions and look at the social and economic needs of society as a whole, pooling resources to improve outcomes for multiple generations, a new report from Generations United finds.

A holistic approach to grantmaking is needed, a compelling frame that uses a common language of inclusion and shared values. This approach recognizes the profound impact that the generations have on each other. For example, if older adults do not have health insurance, the financial burden will fall on the middle generations and society as a whole; if children do not get the immunizations and treatment they need, we will have parents and grandparents missing work to care for sick children.

In this report, Generations United encourages foundations

• To respond to the changing demographics with an approach to funding that cuts across age divisions of the past and looks at the social and economic needs of our society as a whole.
• To think about economies of scope and consider pooling existing resources to increase outcomes for multiple generations in the communities where they live.

The report, Stronger Together: A Call to Innovation for Funders of Children, Youth, Families and Older Adults (6 pages, PDF), documents a number of key policy areas where the interests of youth, families, and older adults converge — including health care, family and medical leave, budget and tax policy, and the environment.

http://foundationcenter.org/pnd/news/story.jhtml?id=263300016