Letter of Transmittal s4

MEMORANDUM

TO: AAA Directors NOTICE: 070103-1-T-OVCS FROM: Terry White Secretary

DATE: June 30, 2003 SUBJECT: Notice of Transmittal: Intergenerational Connections Rollout ______

I am pleased to inform you that the Department is launching the next phase of its Intergenerational Connections Program. This initiative recognizes the important link between elders and young people and the good things that happen as a result of their interaction.

The Florida Legislature recently designated the first week of December as Intergenerational Week in Florida. The Department will host a number of activities during this week, including the 2nd Annual DOEA Best Practices ExCHANGE December 3rd and 4th. As a prelude to December’s observance and the successful launch of the program, we will need your support and participation. Area Agencies on Aging, in their role as the eyes and ears of local communities, play an important advocacy role in supporting intergenerational programs. We intend to feature an extensive Intergenerational Track at the Best Practices ExCHANGE and we look forward to highlighting your success stories.

Given the dynamics of our society, Intergenerational Connections will continue to play a strong role in helping to shape the values of young people. Because many strong relationships already exist within families and communities, it is important that we build upon this network and offer our support.

Intergenerational programs give us the opportunity to bridge the experience and wisdom of elders with the unbridled curiosity and energy of young people. With a large crop of baby boomers poised for retirement, there will be unlimited opportunities for us to use this group as a valuable resource. Area agencies are a critical link in our strategy of getting the word out.

By way of this memorandum and the informational kit to follow (via Priority Mail), the Department is introducing this program to all AAA’s. Nicole Hargraves has been designated as the coordinator of this program. Over the next 3-4 months, she will be visiting each Planning and Service Area to learn more about local intergenerational activities and to discuss ways we can work together to enhance and develop effective intergenerational programs in your community. Notice of Transmittal June 30, 2003 Page Two

Ms. Hargraves will establish a clearinghouse of information on local intergenerational programs so we can share and replicate successful practices. In addition, she will be available to provide ongoing technical assistance to you and your provider networks. Ms. Hargraves can be reached at (850) 414-2341.

Thank you for your support of our Intergenerational Connections Initiative.

TW/nh cc: Volunteer Coordinators Wellness Coordinators