CONTINUANCE CONTINUANCEKnowledge and Understanding Passing from Generation to Generation Fall 2007/Winter 2008 Knowledge and Understanding Passing from Generation to Generation Fall 2008/Winter 2009
A Champion for Civic Engagement
In this issue Governors Applaud Civic Engagement Solving Problems through Creative Dialogue Reaching across the Aisle Intergenerational Initiative Partners Continuance Magazine Improving education through Fall 2008/Winter 2009 Vol. 23: 1 & 2 intergenerational engagement and leadership. Knowledge and Understanding Higher Education Passing from Chicago Educational Alliance • Chicago State University • City Generation to Generation Colleges of Chicago • Council of Community College Presidents EDITORIAL • Council of University Presidents • Eastern Illinois University • Federation of Independent Illinois Colleges and Universities • Editor: Jane Angelis, Ph.D. Governors State University • Illinois Community College Board Word Processing: Maxine Miiller Web Site: Eraina Nossa, Instructional Support • Illinois Community College Trustees Association • Illinois State Services, Morris Library University • Northeastern Illinois University • North Central College • Northern Illinois University • Southern Illinois University System GRAPHICS AND DESIGN • University of Illinois System • Western Illinois University Sharon Granderson and Matthew Signaigo Instructional Support Services, Morris Library P-12 (PRESCHOOL TO HIGH SCHOOL) Chicago Public Schools • Illinois Association of Regional Shannon Wimberly, Michelle Rositch, and Superintendents • Illinois Association of School Administrators • Rose Weisburd, Printing and Duplicating Illinois Association of School Boards • Illinois Education Association • Illinois Federation of Teachers • Illinois Principals Association • SUBSCRIPTION Illinois PTA • Illinois State Board of Education To be added to the mailing list, send your request to [email protected], FAX 618-453-4295, or call STATE AGENCIES 618-453-1186 Aging • Arts Council • Attorney General • Children and Family Services • Corrections • Historic Preservation • Human Services • ADDRESS Public Health • Secretary of State • State Archives • State Library • Continuance Magazine Office of the Associate Chancellor for Diversity Veterans Affairs Mail Code 4341 Southern Illinois University Carbondale AGING & RETIREE ORGANIZATIONS Carbondale, Il 62901 AARP • Chicago Department on Aging • Executive Service Corps www.siu.edu/offices/iii • Illinois Association of RSVP Directors • Illinois Association of 618-453-1186 Area Agencies on Aging • Illinois Association of Senior Centers • Illinois Coalition on Aging • Illinois Retired Teachers Association • Service Corps of Retired Executives • State Universities Annuitants Intergenerational Initiative Association The goal of the Intergenerational Initiative is to create an infrastructure of retiree involvement. History Organizations The following actions set that goal in motion: Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum • American Family • promote intergenerational engagement History Institute • American Folklife Center, Library of Congress • and leadership that will help solve the American Indian Center • Changing Worlds • Chicago Historical perplexing problems of education Society • Illinois Historic Preservation Agency • Illinois Humanities • advocate for a public policy responsive to the Council • Illinois State Historical Society • Illinois Storytelling, Inc. needs and resources of all ages • foster communication and contact between • Mexican Fine Arts Center • Metro Chicago History Education generations and cultures Center • enrich the educational experience through lifelong service and learning SERVICE & COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS • publicize the stories about the good things Chicago Metropolitan Intergenerational Committee • HURRAH happening in education through intergenerational leadership (Happy Upbeat Retirees and other Residents Actively Helping) • Illinois Campus Compact • Illinois Coalition for Community Service Founded in 1987 with funding from the • Illinois Commission for Volunteerism and Community Service • Illinois Board of Higher Education Illinois Corporation for National Service • Voices for Illinois Children • Working in the Schools (WITS) CONTINUANCE Fall 2008/Winter 2009 Vol. 23 Nos. 1 & 2
Contents
Commentary Solving Problems through 2 Creative Dialogue A Modern-Day CCC Links Talents to Needs 22 Jane Angelis, Editor Generations Connect: An Illinois Tradition 22
Let’s Talk about Public Policy that Impacts Older Cover Story: A Champion for and Younger Generations 24 Civic Engagement 3 Pat Callan and Andrew Yarrow Public Agenda’s Students Face Up to the Service Can Transform Lives 3 Nation’s Finances 26 Interview with Harris Wofford Local Discussions Feature Aging is an Asset You Can’t Learn to Play the Harp for the Future 26 without Playing the Harp 6 Older Population Offers Opportunity for The Serve America Act 7 Our State 27 Gary Metro A Brief History of National Service 8
New Movement for Lifelong: A Coalition of Older Learner Civic Engagement 10 Programs in Community Colleges and Universities 28 The Atlantic Philanthropies Targets Civic The National Speakers Series 28 Engagement of Older Adults 10 Purpose of the Lifelong Coalition 29 Governors Applaud Civic Engagement 11 Future of Older Learner Programs Facts on the Illinois Policy Academy 18 The Story behind the Osher Foundation 31
Reaching across the Aisle to Resources and Events Do the Work of the People 16 32 Aging in America: Annual Conference 32 U.S. Senate: 1964 16 Don’t Cheat the Children 32 The Illinois Senate: 2009 17 Helene Block Fields
Three cheers for the photographers and their splendid pho- tos: Cover: Jennifer D. Cogswell; Page 4: John Gilledy/PEI; The Last Word Page 16: The Mike Mansfield Library and Archives; and Page 33 17: Brandy Rees, Illinois Senate. A heary thank you to An- Principles of Public Civic Engagement 33 drew Dean, City Year Boston, for helping with photographs.
Continuance Magazine www.siu.edu/offices/iii Fall 2008/Winter 2009 A Modern-Day CCC Links Talents to Needs
n 1933, the Civilian Conservation as the Retiree Leading model in ICorps (CCC) was established to Canton at Spoon River Community address the economic turmoil of College. Retirees Leading is based the depression and sponsor work on community partnerships that to replenish America’s natural immerse retirees in the workings of resources. Young men participated the community and help them hone in every state by planting trees, their leadership skills. The project building bridges, and constructing has graduated 50 retirees over the mountain roads to fight forest fires. last two years and has a waiting list of retirees eager for the training. or state agency, it has support In 2009, there are many similarities to ensure continuity. Third, the to the events surrounding the In the Cover Story, Harris champions who started the development of the CCC. Our Wofford describes how Roosevelt conversation will follow the economy is in turmoil and developed the CCC by connecting progress and acknowledge the unemployment has topped 7%. talents with needs. He followed contributions of volunteers. We have a growing group of the three simple steps: First, he citizenry –– retirees –– with time started a conversation with his More to Give, a report that could be used to replenish Cabinet, about how they could commissioned by AARP and natural and community resources. design the CCC based on other written by John Bridgeland, Robert Instead of planting trees, they successful programs. Like many Putnam, and Harris Wofford, calls could plant the seeds of academic of our leaders and policymakers, the progress of engaging older success with youthful scholars- Roosevelt’s cabinet was skeptical. generations ”a signpost of our to-be. Instead of building bridges, Second, Roosevelt assigned the country’s values.” Retirees are they could connect to others in the development to Cabinet members the longest-living, best-educated, community through technology who had the expertise: the wealthiest, and most highly skilled or one-on-one interaction. Instead Army and the Departments of of America’s generations and, yes, of constructing roads, they could Agriculture, Interior and Labor. they have more to give. build pathways for retirees to Third, he championed the progress. participate in their communities. “The American people are ready The architecture for enlisting to serve their communities, but The time is right for a modern- retirees to help in schools and not enough have been asked or day CCC to enlist retirees in communities can follow a know how,” says President Barack developing a service infrastructure, similar simple pattern. First, Obama. Our challenge in Illinois which President Obama calls college presidents, policymakers, is to do the “asking” and develop the architecture of service. The educators, business leaders well-managed organizations to architecture is simply a system that and their boards can initiate connect talents of older adults with connects talents with needs. conversations about what could the needs of society. be accomplished. Second, if the We don’t have to start from scratch operation is tied to a national -Editor Jane Angelis with the service infrastructure. service entity, such as AmeriCorps, Good examples abound, such VISTA, RSVP, a Volunteer Center
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Champion for Civic Engagement
A Champion for Civic Engagement
Service Can Transform Lives
If anyone understands national service and its potential for solving America’s problems, it is Harris Wofford. He has been an advisor to presidents and a powerful force behind every major service development over the last 50 years. In addition, he has served as president of two colleges, CEO of the Corporation for National Service, director of the Peace Corp in Ethiopia, U.S. Senator from Pennsylvania, Civic Rights leader, Chairman of America’s Promise, author, and one who lives the life of civic engagement.
Harris Wofford Harris Wofford offers three and he discovered that the school examples of the way service can needed better organizing for their volunteers can do.’ He said, ‘I transform lives and how people volunteers. By the time I visited have a whole new life with a great come to see themselves as assets to him he was in charge and had challenge and I will probably live their communities and country. built a successful program. He longer because of this involvement said ‘I have never had such fun. in my community.’” “A principal in New Jersey moved I am doing what as principal I to Florida in retirement and played dreamed someone would do in “On Martin Luther King Day golf until he was bored. One day my school. We are helping the during a service event, a young he heard about the America Reads teachers in after-school programs African American man was program for volunteer tutors and and in the classroom with the extra introduced as one of their stars. volunteered. The school discovered tutoring that comes from the full He had been a school drop out, that he was a former principal range of things that well-organized in a gang and heading into drugs
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Champion for Civic Engagement
That Bill combined the programs from the War on Poverty, including VISTA, the three Senior Programs, (Foster Grandparents Programs, RSVP and Senior Companions) as well as Service Learning. In 1995, Wofford become CEO of the Corporation for National and Community Service.
When former Governor George Romney proposed a Presidents’ Summit on Service, Wofford joined in organizing the event that was held in Philadelphia in 1997. Participating in a City Year forum on the importance of national service General Colin Powell chaired the Summit and with all the living and toward destruction. He joined service became a common presidents, along with governors, the youth corps and was assigned expectation for Americans. That mayors and leaders from all sectors, to Habitat for Humanity. I asked expectation and wish for all issued a joint call to service. That him why he joined this youth Americans is still in my head and call combined volunteering on corps. At first he joshed a little heart.” a massive scale, an expansion of and said, ‘I thought it would be a AmeriCorps, and launched the different kind of corps, different Wofford has experienced national America’s Promise Alliance, which people, and I might not die at the service of all kinds. After war-time focused on the well being of young end.’ A little later he said, ‘The real service in the Army Air Corps, he people. reason is that I got tired of all the completed a B.A. at the University good people coming to help me in of Chicago, then studied in India, As CEO of the Corporation our housing project. All kinds of and with his wife Claire and wrote for National Service, Wofford people coming to do good against the book, India Afire. He completed started with 20,000 AmeriCorps me. Now I am the one doing a law degree at Howard University members. At the end of the something patriotic and good.’” and Yale Law Schools. He worked Clinton Administration there were with Martin Luther King in the 50,000 members and soon after “During WWII the country was 1950s and walked with King, John 9/11 under President George pulled together by the common Lewis and others from Selma to Bush, it grew to 75,000. The goal of winning the war and Montgomery in 1965. He served as Kennedy-Hatch Serve America president of two colleges, SUNY Act, which was unveiled during “A change of mindset at Old Westbury and Bryn Mawr the ServiceNation Summitt on College. As Senator from 1991- September 11, 2008, calls for an is needed for older 95, Wofford sponsored legislation expansion to 250,000 members. Americans. They need to with Senators Ted Kennedy and The Serve America Act was see themselves and to be Barbara Mikulski to establish supported by candidates John the Corporation for National and McCain and Barack Obama along seen as assets.” Community Service. with a group of Republicans and
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Champion for Civic Engagement
appropriate cabinet and federal President Barack Obama sends a call to ser- vice for all ages. He understands the prob- agencies. Obama’s plan calls lems of getting involved. “Many Americans for five new Corps, Education, who want to serve are not aware of service Health, Clean Energy, Veterans, opportunities that fit their interests or sched- ules, aren’t sure how to distinguish among and Homeland Security and various opportunities and don’t know how each of those new corps should to sign up.” be connected to the appropriate “Older Americans have a wide range of skills federal agencies. and knowledge to contribute to local and national public service efforts. New efforts Much of the structure for are needed particularly to tap the idealism and experience of the baby boomer genera- national service is based on state tion –– the largest and healthiest genera- commissions and works through tion to enter retirement in history.” non-profit and educational organizations. President Obama Democrats. The bill is currently in “Four months later––by July 31– is considering a White House unit committee. –they reported more than 300,000 for social innovation and a fund young men in 1600 camps. that will encourage non-profit Organizing Service Roosevelt followed the progress and educational organizations to closely, week by week. He gave produce new programs. Wofford points to Franklin extraordinary attention to the CCC, Roosevelt’s organization of the which became the most popular Involvement of Older Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) program of the New Deal.” Generations as a powerful example of how full-time citizen service can be “When President Obama proposes “President Obama says that older organized on a large scale. 175,000 new AmeriCorps Americans must be a part of members, he can look to the national and local service efforts. In his first hundred days, Roosevelt example of Roosevelt’s CCC Experience Corps is just one established the CCC by directing and connect AmeriCorps to the four of his Cabinet Secretaries. He said to the Secretary of Labor, Francis Perkins, ‘I want you to coordinate the plan. I want the Labor Department to find the out- of-school, out-of-work young men. I want the Interior Department and the Agriculture Department to identify the most important problems on our public lands and to get the experts who know how to solve them. I want the Army to build the camps and supply the initial structure for the leaders of the CCC.’ The department heads were skeptical but he said, ‘And I want 250,000 CCC members at work by the end of the summer.’’’ Passing sandbags from one to the next to hold back the rising waters
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Champion for Civic Engagement
The value of service needs to service will be enriched by the You Can’t Learn to Play be made clear to people and talents of older people. Like the the Harp without Playing young man who joined a youth to state and local leaders, so the Harp that they can mobilize service corps after experiencing people to solve major problems. “doing good against him” in the projects, all ages must recognize by Harris Wofford their potential to be an asset for example of many different their communities. The value of Active service means seeking to ventures that try to find the best service needs to be made clear solve significant public problems way, to reach, to ask, to enlist, to to people and to state and local by taking responsiblity in our help older Americans become a big leaders, so that they can mobilize communitities, the nation, and the part of service efforts.” service to solve major problems. world. We can control our destiny and this happens through good “President Obama wants full-time Roosevelt’s CCC gives hope that citizenship and active service. service an option for everyone. new ideas can work if the right He is clear that service should not people come together. By weaving What are the skills of citizenship? be limited to young people. The connections between people of We learn about citizenship by Peace Corps is already putting new different backgrounds, races, and doing it. To say you can teach emphasis on 50+ Americans to be ideologies, our democracy will citizenship in the classroom is like an increasing portion of the Peace be stronger with people working a basketball coach saying “I taught Corps volunteers. I would like to together, becoming friends and foul shots last week with three see shorter terms of 3 or 6 months or providing effective leadership. lectures.” one year for overseas volunteering, “To others coming of age,” Wofford particularly for older Americans says that “at four score and three Artistotle said : “You can’t learn to who have needed skills.” years old, I am having some of play the harp without playing the the best times of my life. I hope harp.” Likewise, You can’t build a “Obama also proposes an others will see and enjoy the house without building a house. expansion of the three existing opportunities in the later stages You can’t establish justice without Senior Corps Programs and of their lives as a time for encore promoting justice. You can’t have Experience Corps and the work and service in many fields quality service without doing expansion of non-stipended service in ways thay can contribute to our service. You can’t have good on a big scale. In the service field communities, our country and the citizenship without involvement in we need to change the mindset of world. citizenship. the young people and the public, from seeing them as burdens What makes a truly good citizen and problems but as assets and is the same thing that makes a potential leaders. The parallel good worker--taking personal change of mindset is needed for responsibility, being part of a team, older Americans. They need to see and looking beyond immediate themselves and to be seen as assets.” personal interests to the common More to Give, a report commissioned by good. The Future for National Service AARP and written by John Bridgeland, Robert Putnam, and Harris Wofford is available on the Internet. It is a valuable Like the New Jersey principal who resource for civic engagment projects with organized a volunteer tutoring older adults. program in his retirement, national http://assets.aarp.org/rgcenter/general/moretogive.pdf
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Champion for Civic Engagement
The Serve America Act skills the public needs – but none of the current service programs are structured with their needs A Legislative Initiative to Expand and Improve in mind. The legislation will enhance incentives for Domestic and International Service Opportunities retirees to give a year of service through the Corps, for All Americans and will establish “Encore Fellowships” to help retirees who wish to transition to longer-term public Introduced by Senator Edward M. Kennedy service. and Senator Orrin Hatch • For Americans of All Ages, Increase Volunteering. Not all Americans can make a significant time Themes commitment to service, but many volunteer in other • Expand opportunities for people to serve at every ways. The legislation will expand the volunteer pool stage of life. by establishing a “Volunteer Generation Fund” to • Use service to meet specific national challenges. help nonprofit organizations recruit and manage more Put service to work to solve our most pressing volunteers. challenges, such as tackling the dropout crisis and strengthening our schools; improving energy III. Support Innovation in the Nonprofit Sector: efficiency; safeguarding the environment; improving Social entrepreneurs who have launched innovative health care in low-income communities; expanding nonprofit organizations such as Teach for America economic opportunities for low-income individuals; and Citizen Schools in Boston are experimenting with and preparing for and responding to disasters and new solutions to pressing problems. The legislation emergencies. will recognize and support the role of effective social entrepreneurs in solving our national challenges: I. Ask Many More Americans to Give a Year to Solve • Establish a Commissionto study and improve how Specific Challenges: the federal government, nonprofits, and the private Building on the success of AmeriCorps, the legislation sector work together to meet national challenges will create new, effective “Corps” focused on areas of effectively. national need. It will ask 175,000 Americans to give a year • Apply Effective Business Strategies to the Nonprofit of service through these corps as part of a new national Sector, by establishing a network of “Community commitment to solve these challenges, expanding the Solution Funds” that are basically venture capital funds to number of national service participants to 250,000. help the nonprofit sector seek talent and put it to work.
II. Increase Opportunities to Serve by People of All Ages: IV. Improve and Expand International Service and • For Students, Increase Service Early in Life:Service America’s Respect in the World early in life will put more and more youth on a path • Support for Short-Term International Service to a lifetime of service. The legislation will improve Opportunities:We must expand the Peace Corps so opportunities for young people in low income, high- more Americans can provide critical assistance to need communities to engage in service to improve people across the globe while promoting America’s their own communities. international standing. But many skilled Americans • For Working Adults, Encourage Employers to Let are unable to give two years. The legislation will Employees Serve, by establishing a tax incentive for strengthen the current “Volunteers for Prosperity” employers who allow employees to take paid leave program, which coordinates and supports short-term for full-time service. international service opportunities for skilled • For Retirees, Value Their Skills and Make Service professionals to serve in developing nations. Work for Them. Many retiring citizens are ready, http://s3.amazonaws.com/btcreal/855/Kennedy_Hatch_Serve_America willing, and able to be involved in service and have _Act_Summary.pdf
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History of National Service
A Brief History of National Service
Corporation for National and Community Service
hen faced with challenges, our nation has always relied on the dedication and action ofW its citizens. The Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS) carries on a long tradition of citizen involvement by providing opportunities for Americans of all ages to improve their communities through service.
The Civilian Conservation Corps
During the Great Depression of the 1930s, President Students prepare a display at the Illinois Capitol as part of a ser- Franklin D. Roosevelt created the Civilian vice-learning project. Conservation Corps. Four million young people joined in response to his call to service, restoring After returning from overseas, Peace Corps volunteers the nation’s parks, revitalizing the economy, and put their new knowledge of others to work at home, supporting their families and themselves. For 11 in the spirit of citizenship, changing America for the years the Civilian Conservation Corps provided better. billions of dollars in services and enabled millions of families to live in dignity. The War on Poverty President Lyndon B. Johnson brought the spirit of the The GI Bill Peace Corps home to America by creating Volunteers During the 1940’s, the GI Bill linked wartime service in Service to America (VISTA) in 1964. VISTA, which is to educational benefits, offering returning World now part of AmeriCorps, continues to fund programs War II veterans the opportunity to pursue higher under the sponsorship of local public agencies or education in partial compensation for service to nonprofit organizations to improve the condition of their country. Veterans improved their own lives by people living in under-served, low-income communities attending college. They also contributed mightily to throughout America. Other initiatives such as the America’s future. With the education they received, Retired and Senior Volunteer Corps (RSVP), the Foster those citizens helped spark the economic boom that Grandparent Program, and the Senior Companion helped make America the world’s leading economy. Program were developed in order to engage older Americans in the work of improving the nation. Peace Corps In the 1960s the call to service came from President Youth Service Movement John F. Kennedy, who challenged Americans in his In 1970, Congress created the Youth Conservation inaugural address “Ask not what your country can Corps (YCC), a summer environmental employment do for you, ask what you can do for your country.” program for youth ages 15-18. In 1976, California In response to this challenge, the Peace Corps was became the first state to create its own youth born. The Peace Corps continues to engage thousands conservation program, the California Conservation of volunteers who travel the world far and wide, Corps. Youth Conservation Corps still operates on building schools where none existed, helping farmers a limited basis in some national parks and wildlife provide food for the hungry, and creating hospitals to refuges. Private funders helped create additional care for the sick. youth corps programs during the seventies, including
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History of National Service
the Youth Volunteer Corps of educational institutions; American a bipartisan coalition of Members America, City Year, and Youth Conservation and Youth Service of Congress and signed into law on Build. Associations such as Youth Corps, supporting summer and September 21, 1993. The legislation Service America (YSA) and the year-round youth corps initiatives created a new federal agency, the National Association of Service that engage both in- and out- Corporation for National and and Conservation Corps (NASCC) of-school youth in community Community Service (CNCS), were formed to work with the service work; and the National and to administer federally funded various youth service movements. Community Service Demonstration national service programs. The Youth service programming grew Models, for programs that were law created AmeriCorps, which on college campuses, sponsored potential models for large-scale was designed to support local, by such national programs as the national service. state, and national organizations Campus Outreach Opportunity across the nation that involve League (COOL) and Campus The National Civilian Community Americans in results-driven Compact. Corps (NCCC), a demonstration community service. Individual program to explore the AmeriCorps participants, known Revival of Interest National and possibility of using post-Cold as members, typically serve for a Community Service War military resources to help year, during which they receive President George H. W. Bush solve problems here at home, was a living allowance. After service, helped spark a revival of interest enacted later as part of the 1993 members receive an education in national service when he Defense Authorization Act. It award, administered by the instituted the White House Office is a residential service program National Service Trust, and paid of National Service in 1989. In modeled on the Depression-era as a voucher redeemable for 1990 Congress passed the National Civilian Conservation Corps and current education costs at colleges, and Community Service Act, the United States military. universities, other post-secondary which created a Commission on institutions, and approved school- National and Community Service to-work programs, or to pay back sought to “renew the ethic of civic qualified student loans already responsibility in the United States.” incurred.
Full implementation began in The legislation drew on 1992, when the commission the principles of both the Civilian awarded $64 million in grants Conservation Corps and the GI to support four broad types of Bill, encouraging Americans to state and local community service serve and rewarding those who efforts. These initiatives were the do. The new agency also took Serve- America programs (now Students and elders dance the limbo in a over the programs of two previous Learn and Serve) which involved multicultural service experience. agencies, ACTION, which was school-aged youth in community responsible for running VISTA and service and service-learning National and Community Service the National Senior Service Corps through a variety of school and Trust Act programs, and the more recent community-based activities; President Bill Clinton sponsored Commission on National and Higher Education Innovative the National and Community Community Service, including the Projects aimed at involving college Service Trust Act, a revision of the NCCC, forming a new network of students in community service and National and Community Service national service programs under at promoting community service at Act of 1990, which was passed by AmeriCorps.
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New Movement for Civic Engagement
New Movement for Civic Engagement
The Atlantic Philanthropies Targets the Civic Engagement of Older Adults
The effort for civic engagement started in 2001 when Brian Hofland, formerly with the Retirement Research Foundation in Chicago, joined The Atlantic Philanthropies to conduct a strategic review of its aging programs. When he came on board, the aging agenda had focused primarily on the frail older adult, like most of the aging programs in the country at that time. During the strategic review, Laura Robbins, Head of the U.S. Aging Hofland recognized that 85% of Brian Hofland, Director of the Aging Programme, The Atlantic Philanthropies Program, The Atlantic Philanthropies older adults are independent and that they are the fastest growing resource in the country with much and Senior Counsel at the Brennan of the Ageing Programme and to contribute. Center for Justice. brought Laura Robbins on in 2003 as Head of the U.S. Aging Program. In December 2001, Atlantic’s Board Brian Hofland, Director of the approved the Aging programme’s Aging Programme at The Atlantic In order to create a more robust strategic plan, which included Philanthropies, advises organizations field, Atlantic recognized that civic engagement. Fritz Schwarz, seeking to obtain support for civic there needed to be more leaders now Atlantic’s Board Chair, was engagement programs within their in the field of civic engagement, a champion for the focus on civic own organizations to “get allies and more models around volunteerism, engagement. He is an exemplar champions on boards and perhaps work, and lifelong learning,and of civic engagement in his own among senior management who are more pathways for organizations life, as he went from a partner at in their encore careers or are involved to create opportunities for older Cravath, Swaine & Moore and in in service, or who have spouses, adults. Policies that promote government service as counsel to friends or colleagues who are.” civic engagement, such as the the Church Committee and the Serve America Act are a welcome New York Corporation Counsel Shortly after conducting the contribution to the field. There in the Koch Administration to his strategic reviews for the U.S. and also need to be more funders for current roles as Chair of the New international aging programs, civic engagement, particularly at York City Campaign Finance Board Hofland was promoted to Director the community level.
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New Movement for Civic Engagement
Governors Applaud Civic Engagement
Over time, the institutions and he National Governors Association (NGA), Center for Best Practices individuals engaged in older Tlaunched the Civic Engagement of Older Adults initiative in 2006. adult civic engagement began With generous support from the Atlantic Philanthropies, the initiative to comprise a robust field. As a seeks to increase civic engagement among older adults by capitalizing on coherent network they can see the leadership of state governors. The goal of the initiative is to improve how their resources could be the health and lives of older Americans by substantially increasing the coupled with others and create proportion of adults who participate in employment, education and a more comprehensive program. training, and meaningful volunteer activities. The NGA Center for Best When you pull networks together, Practices has provided intensive technical assistance to fourteen states everyone wins. to develop and implement strategic plans that will lead to the increased engagement of older adults in work, volunteering, and learning. With the encouragement of its CEO Gara LaMarche, Atlantic will be The civic engagement of older adults is important to states due to the building on the field’s success by social, economic and budgetary implications of an aging population. working to strengthen the voice of Through this project, the NGA Center for Best Practices has an older adults. opportunity to work with state leaders on improving the health and financial benefits that engagement can bring to older adults Older adults are the fastest and communities. Organizations as well as states also benefit from growing resource in the United the continued engagement of older adults by maintaining a skilled States,” said Laura Robbins. and knowledgeable workforce in both paid and unpaid positions. “When pathways are created for Importantly, engaged older adults help to increase organizational older adults of all races, ethnicities competitiveness and ensure that state and local economies remain strong. and at all income levels to engage, Linda Hoffman, Senior Policy Analyst and Martin Simon, Director, they make a difference. In order to Workforce Development Programs, NGA Center for Best Practices are the fully capitalize on this enormous program coordinators. social asset, pathways and models must be created to enable older adults to serve and advocate for social change on behalf of Fourteen states have participated in the NGA Policy Academy for the Civic Engage- themselves and others.” ment of Older Adults including Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Florida, Idaho, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Mexico, New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Wyoming.
When governors were asked for comments, Montana Governor Brian Schweitzer and North Carolina Governor Peg Perdu sent comments even though they weren’t par- ticipants in the project. They are strong supporters of older adult civic engagement.
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Governors Applaud Civic Engagement
Alabama Governor Bob Riley Idaho Governor Otter (C. L. “Butch” Otter Illinois Governor Patrick Quinn
“Workforce development has “We welcome the challenge of “In Gettysburg, Abraham Lincoln been one of the keys to Alabama’s capitalizing on the knowledge described the essence of American economic success over the last five and skills of Idaho’s seniors. This Democracy––that it is a government or six years, and seniors are an NGA Policy Academy on Civic of the people, by the people and for important part of that workforce. Engagement is very timely. Its focus the people. Civic engagement is Their knowledge and experience are on increasing employment access, critical to the democracy Lincoln invaluable. Many in my generation enhancing education and training described and the foundation for want to continue their careers, or opportunities, and expanding an ethic of service. Everyone can find other ways to keep active. volunteerism enables us to better serve, particularly older Illinoisans In Alabama, we wholeheartedly harness the talent and energies of who bring wisdom, experience and support that, and I’m proud of our Idaho’s Baby Boom population.” survival skills from their generation state for advancing programs that and generations past. “ encourage civic engagement for our seniors.”
Core Teams: National Governors Association Policy Academy for the Civic Engagement of Older Adults
Alabama: Commissioner Irene B. Collins, AL Dept. of Senior Services (Core Team Leader), Commissioner Steve Shivers, AL Dept. of Rehabilita- tion Services; Senator Gerald Dial, Executive Director, Alabama Rural Action Commission; J. William Curtis, Executive Director, East AL Regional Planning and Development Commission; Lisa Castaldo, Deputy Director, Governor’s Office of Faith Based and Community Initiatives; Margaret McKenzie, Policy Analyst, Office of Governor Bob Riley; Kim Boswell, Director of Human Resources, AL Dept. of Rehabilitation Services; Anna Pritchett, Assoc. State Director for Advocacy and Outreach, AARP Alabama; Mike Malandro, Senior Workforce Development Coordinator, AL Dept. of Senior Service
Idaho: Melinda Adams, Statewide Older Worker Coordinator; Cheryl Brush, Workforce Policy Adviser, Idaho Department of Labor; Don Drum, Deputy Director, Public Employee Retirement System of Idaho; Kelly Houston, Executive Director, Serve Idaho; Roger Madsen, Director, Idaho Department of Labor; Con Paulos, President, Con Paulos, Inc.; Tammy Perkins, Governor’s Special Assistant, Office of the Governor; Kim Toryanski, Administrator, Idaho Commission on Aging; Dave Whaley, President, Idaho AFL-CIO; Jim Wordelman, State Director, AARP
Illinois Jane Angelis, Director and Editor, SIU Carbondale; Robert Gallo, State Director, AARP; Marilyn Hennessy, Trustee, Retirement Re- search Foundation; John Hosteny, Director, Corp. for National & Community Service;Charles D. Johnson, Director, IL. Dept. on Aging; Peggy Luce, Vice President, Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce; Robert Mees, President, John A. Logan College; Michael O’Donnell, Executive Director, East Central IL. Area Agency on Aging; Bernarda Wong, President, Chinese American Service League
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Governors Applaud Civic Engagement
Maine Governor John Baldacci Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick
“Maine’s aging population is “In Maryland, we recognize the “Older adults are in a unique a tremendous resource. Older contributions seniors can make to position to give back. They have an Mainers have contributed greatly to our workforce and institutions,” incomparable depth of experience our State, and they continue to play stated Maryland Governor Martin that can make a special difference a valuable role in our economy as the O’Malley. “On the municipal in the life of a community,” said lynchpin of our future workforce. level we had great success with Massachusetts Governor Deval We are enriched by older adults Experience Corps Baltimore, where L. Patrick. “Encouraging civic who dedicate their significant seniors were placed into classroom engagement among seniors is smart talents, wisdom and time to benefit settings to support teachers in policy.” Maine communities.” instruction and course presentation. Their presence allowed many students to receive individualized attention they may not have received otherwise.”
Core Teams: National Governors Association Policy Academy for the Civic Engagement of Older Adults Maine: Diana Scully, Director, Office of Elder Services, Maine Department of Health and Human Services; Anne Schink, Program Officer,- Com mission for Community Service, Maine State Planning Office; Jane Gilbert, Deputy Commissioner, Maine Department of Labor; Alicia Kellogg, Director of Human Resources, Maine Department of Administrative & Financial Services; Mary Walsh, Director of Community Programs, Office of Elder Services, Maine Department of Health & Human Services; Amanda Rector, Economic Research Analyst, State Planning Office; Cheryl Miller, Senior Program Officer, Maine Development Foundation; Jud Dolphin, Executive Director, AARP Maine; Peaches Bass, Labor Program Specialist, ME Department of Labor
Maryland Bruce Adams, Director, Montgomery County Government; Eric Brenner, Director, MD Governor’s Grants Office;Sandra Cobb, Planning Administrator, Maryland Department of Aging; Joseph DeMattos, Jr, Senior State Director, AARP; Keith Hart, Director, Governor’s Of- fice on Service & Volunteerism; Gloria Lawlah, Secretary, Maryland Department of Aging; Crystal Martin, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation; Kevin Griffin Moreno, Program Officer, Baltimore Community Foundation; Wesley Queen, Assistant to the Dean for Public Health Advocacy, Univ. of Maryland School of Public Health; Ilene Rosenthal, Deputy Secre- tary, Maryland Department of Aging; John Stewart, Executive Director, Baltimore City Commission on Aging
Massachusetts Deborah Banda, State Director, AARP Massachusetts; Suzanne Bump, Secretary, Executive Office of Labor & WorkforceDevelopment; Elizabeth Clay, Director, Office of Governor Deval L. Patrick; Michael Festa, Secretary, MA Executive Office of Elder Affairs; Emily Haber, CEO, Massachusetts Service Alliance; William Noone, Director, Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission; Ruth Palombo, Assistant Secretary, Massachusetts Execu- tive Office of Elder Affairs; Karen Shack, Senior Workforce Development Consultant, Commonwealth Corporation; David Stevens, Executive Director, Massachusetts Councils on Aging; Barbara Wooten, Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer, Commonwealth of Massachusetts
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Governors Applaud Civic Engagement
Montana Governor Brian Schweitzer New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson New York Governor David Paterson
“Senior citizens play a vital role in “New Mexico has an invaluable “Here in New York, nearly three our society today. Whether through wealth of seniors and individuals million volunteers contribute an work, volunteering, parenting or living with a disability who can annual average of over 366 million grandparenting, the knowledge share their personal experiences hours of service. This is a tradition and skills they share are some of the and wisdom to benefit society as a worth fighting for because the most valuable, passing their wisdom whole. Engage New Mexico! is an value of such service translates into on to the next generations.” opportunity to call on these living stronger communities, healthier treasures to help move our state families and a more hopeful nation. forward while enriching their own Volunteerism and community lives even more through employment service are the foundations of our opportunities, volunteer efforts, and communities and improve the lives taking advantage of continuing of every New Yorker. All of us “no education.” matter our age or background“ have something to contribute to the well-being of our neighbors and our State,” said Governor Paterson
Core Teams: National Governors Association Policy Academy for the Civic Engagement of Older Adults
New Mexico Hazel Mella, MA, Director, Governor Richardson’s Office of Faith-Based & Community Initiatives; Sec. Cindy Padilla, NM Aging and Long-term Services Division; Lynne Anker-Unnever NM Aging and Long-term Services Division; John Arnold, NM Aging and Long- term Services Division; Norm Tucker, San Juan Community College; Tom Trujillo, NM Aging and Long-term Services Division
New York Lois Aronstein, New York State Director, AARP; Michael Burgess, Director, NYS Office for the Aging; Ann DiSarro, Private Consultant;Lola Brabham Harder, Director of Human Services, NYS Governor’s Office; Nancy Kiyonaga, Director of Workforce Planning, NYS Department of Civil Service; Jen McCormick, VP, Policy & Programs, Empire State Development Corp.; Margaret Moree, Director of Federal Affairs, The Business Council of NYS; Mario Musolino, Executive Deputy Commissioner, NYS Department of Labor; Greg Olsen, Deputy Director, NYS Office for the Aging; Mark Walter, Executive Director, NYS Office of National & Community Service
Ohio Barbara E. Riley, (Lead), Ohio Department of Aging; Scott Layson, Ohio Department of Aging; Wendy Patton, Office of Governor Strick- land; Bruce Madson, Ohio Department of Job and Family Services; Lisa Patt-McDaniel, Ohio Department of Development; Julia Hinten, Ohio Department of Development; Michael Taggart, Ohio Board of Regents; Cathy Hill, Ohio Board of Regents; Kitty Burscu, Ohio com- munity Service Council; Paul Schrader, Corporation for National and Community Service; Bill Sundermeyer, AARP
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Governors Applaud Civic Engagement
North Carolina Governor Ohio Governor Pennsylvania Governor Wyoming Governor Bev Perdue Ted Stickland Ed Rendell Dave Freudenthal
“We should all strive to “Older Ohioans are a vital “Pennsylvania has nearly “When we think about make civic engagement part of our workforce, both 2.4 million residents over the economy, we need a lifelong commitment. today and in the future. the age of 60, and that to think about Boomers Service to others makes us With virtually all of the number is expected to as a resource. It puts all healthier and happier,” labor force growth in Ohio increase to more than 3 us in a position where said Governor Perdue. coming from those age 55 million by 2020. Civic en- we’re talking about all “Whether our older and over, ensuring they gagement programs are of the resources that are citizens are working, have the skills they need essential because they en- available as opposed to volunteering or educating, to succeed is of critical able older Pennsylvanians part of the resources that they have a wealth of importance to the worker, to continue to enrich our are available. Because you knowledge to share, and the employer and the state. Commonwealth, by shar- know we’re all going to be energy to spare. Actually, I At the same time, creating ing their experiences there. It’s an opportunity believe that our retirement meaningful opportunities through work, volunteer- for us to say, ‘You know, years can be our most for retirees looking for an ing, and lifelong learning you’ve had one life. productive years.” encore career allows them to opportunities.” You’ve retired, but there’s contribute the skills learned time for another one.’” in the corporate world to better the lives of those in their own community.” Core Teams: National Governors Association Policy Academy for the Civic Engagement of Older Adults
Pennsylvania Linda Blanchette, Deputy Secretary, PA Welfare Department;Ivonne Bucher, Chief of Staff, PA Department of Aging; Richard Chevrefils, State Director, AARP Pennsylvania; Nora Dowd Eisenhower, Secretary, Pennsylvania Department of Aging; Robert Garraty, Executive Director, Pennsylvania Workforce Investment Board; Kathleen Howley, Assistant Vice Chancellor, Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education; Karen Kaskey, Executive Director, PennSERVE: The Governor’s Office of Citizen Service; Kurt Knaus, Managing Director, Experience Wave PA; Nancy Smith, Director, Bureau of State Employment; Andrea Taylor, Director of Training, Temple University; Harris Wooford, National Spokesman, Experience Wave; Naomi Wyatt, Secretary of Administration, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
Wyoming Rob Black, Wyoming Department of Workforce Services Community Projects Manager; Brad Westby, Wyoming Department of Work- force Services Industry Partnerships Manager; Joanne Bowlby, AARP Wyoming, Associate Director, Communications; Rachel Chad- derdon, ServeWyoming, Executive Director; Brandon Marshall, Wyoming Business Council, Business Retention & Entrepreneurship Program Manager; Jerimiah Rieman, Wyoming Department of Workforce Services, Policy Analyst; Michelle Ammerman, Wyoming Department of Health, Aging Division Interim Administrator; Danny Romero, Wyoming Department of Administration and Informa- tion Human Resources Division, Grievance/Appeals Coordinator
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Reaching Across the Aisle to Do the Work of the People U.S. Senate: 1964
n his Inaugural Address, President Barack Obama touchedI on many important events that made his journey to the White House possible. One touchstone, the Civil Rights Legislation of 1964 exemplified the give and take across the aisle between Republican Minority Leader Everett Dirksen from Illinois and Democrat Majority Leader Mike Mansfield from Montana. Many people were involved in the passage of the Civil Rights Legislation, but Republican votes The Civil Rights Act of 1964 would never have passed without cooperation between Sen- ate Majority Leader Mike Mansfield (left) and Senate Minority Leader Everett Dirksen were key. Mansfield acknowledged (right) working together in a spirit of civility. his friend; “There would be no Civil Rights Bill without Dirksen.” Constitution and ‘would destroy 27 Republicans, four more than forever the doctrine of separation the required, cast their votes Don Oberdorfer tells the of powers.’ Humphrey*** spoke for cloture.***” “Nine days of remarkable story about June briefly, saying that senators debate and voting followed 10, 1964, the day of the vote for voting for cloture would ‘make the imposition of cloture, but cloture* in his biography Senator that dream for full freedom, full everyone knew the die was cast. Mansfield: The Extraordinary Life justice, and full citizenship for Final passage came on June 19 of a Great American Statesman and every American a reality.’ Finally it by a 73-27 vote. After a debate, Diplomat. was the turn of Dirksen. Speaking the House agreed to accept in a low voice, he cited one of his the Senate-passed bill without “On the day of the vote the favorite quotations, by Victor Hugo: amendment and sent it to the Democratic and Republican ‘Stronger than all the armies is an White House. Johnson signed the leaderships believed they had idea whose time has come.’ Dirksen Civil Rights Action of 1964 into the votes to cut off debate, but declared, ‘The time has come for law in a grand ceremony in the nobody could be certain. The equality of opportunity in sharing East Room on July 2.” galleries were packed. On the in government, in education, in ______Senate floor, nearly everyone was employment. It will not be stayed *Cloture is the process of voting to stop in his place. Mansfield rose and or denied. It is here.’” debate on a bill. The ongoing debate is referred to as a filibuster and the vote on spoke first, declaring, ‘The Senate passage of the bill can’t be called until two now stands at the crossroads of “A hush fell over the chamber as thirds of the Senators vote for cloture. history, and the time for decision the roll was called, leaving the **Senator Richard Russell from Georgia was the leader of the Dixie Democrats who op- is at hand.’ Next Russell**, who Senate more silent, Mansfield posed the Civil Rights Legislation charged that the bill violated both said later, than he had ever heard ***Senator Hubert Humphrey from Minne- the spirit and the letter of the it. In the end 44 Democrats and sota was the floor manager of the Bill.
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Reaching Across the Aisle to Do the Work of the People Illinois Senate: 2009
orty-five years later, Illinois state senators watched the inaugurationF of one of their former colleagues as the 44th President of the United States. President Obama fulfills the promise of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and personifies the spirit of compromise and perseverance that was responsible for its passage. The new leaders of the Illinois Senate, Democrat Senate President John Cullerton and Senate Republican Leader Christine Radogno begin their tenure with a
similar promise and a pledge of a Senate President John Cullerton and Minority Leader Christine Radogno share thoughts cooperative environment that will at the podum of the Illinois Senate chamber. be needed to solve the problems in Illinois. With a deficit approaching “My main priority is getting the with the attitude, “Let’s sit down $9 billion, unemployment up fiscal house in order.” Cullerton and talk.” Radogno agrees. She dramatically, and needs in health, says he hopes “to pass legislation says “it is much easier to have a education, and technology, the to provide a solution to the positive atmosphere if you have a work is daunting. massive problems in the state. My respectful process.” most important task is balancing Already their capacity to the budget.” Senators Cullerton and Radogno reach across the aisle has been pledge to find a path that brings reassuring. When time came to Radogno and Cullerton have much economic stability, creates a elect the senate president, during in common. Both are graduates positive atmosphere, and finds the January swearing-in for of Loyola University in Chicago, solutions to the problems for the 96th session of the General Cullerton majored in political Illinois citizens. The two leaders Assembly, Radogno and Cullerton science and law while Radogno will be challenged to keep a civil voted for one another with hearty completed a masters degree tone when so much is at stake. But applause from their Senate in social work. Cullerton and they only need to look back to the colleagues. Radogno are strong advocates for daunting challenge and unlikely public service and support citizen passage of the Civil Rights Bill Cullerton, now the longest serving participation as key to strong to put the challenges of 2009 in senator, says that one of his major government. perspective. They are off to a good goals is to create a new tone, start with give and take across the an atmosphere of cooperation. Both senators say they are good aisle that would impress Dirksen Radogno agrees, “In the short term listeners and want to hear all sides and Mansfield. I hope to establish a good working of the story. Cullerton says that Article by Jane Angelis, a volunteer for relationship.” Further, she says, he will approach negotiations Senator Mike Mansfield in 1964
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Illinois Policy Academy
Facts on the NGA Illinois Policy Academy
The Civic Engagement of 50+ Illinoisans in Service, Learning & Work
Who: The Core Team and an the economy, workfore, education, Advisory Team represent a broad health, and information 2. Developing an infrastructure group of organizations and technology. that will create opportunities businesses that have an interest in and access to work, learning and the engagement of older adults in When: In September, the National volunteering; service, learning, and work. One Governors Association convened 3. Developing policy to support goal is that 200 organizations will a meeting of the state teams in engagement in Illinois. be involved by May 11, 2009. Annapolis, Maryland to help refine goals and begin to develop How: Illinois has developed What: The purpose is to champion an action plan. The last national a significant coalition of civic engagement and to make meeting will be held in March organizations committed to it more visible and accessible 2009. After these Policy Academy promoting civic engagement. for those age 50 and older. Work meetings and throughout the • Six work groups are mobilizing groups were created to target project, the NGA Center staff efforts for civic engagement related volunteer management, learning, monitors each state’s progress and to the Workforce/Workplace, school involvement, publicity, provides customized technical Education P-20, Volunteer work, and policy. assistance. An evaluation and re- Management, Learning, Policy and setting of goals will take place in Publicity. When: The Policy Academy June 2009. • Presidents of universities and started in July 2008 with a one- community colleges are developing day site visit in Illinois by the Why: Initially the Core Team and units on their campuses to connect NGA Policy Academy to facilitate the Advisory Team––will work retirees to service, work and initial planning and goal setting. with the NGA Policy Academy to learning. The Illinois Core Team assessed increase the engagement of 50+ • A resolution has been submitted current policies, programs Illinoisans and embrace the racial, to the General Assembly that and resources related to civic ethnic, and regional diversity in supports civic engagement. engagement strategies for older Illinois through three stategies: • Coming on May 11 at the Illinois adults. A statewide advisory team Capitol: A Day of Celebration and was recruited and met in Chicago, 1. Communicating the importance setting new goals for older adult Springfield and by conference of civic engagement to retirees, civic engagement in Illinois. call to gather the ideas and policymakers, employers, and the suggestions of experts repesenting citizenry;
Vision for Civic Engagement: All Illinoisans 50+ have opportunities and to engage in meaningful activities through employment, volunteerism and learning and have access to those opportunities.
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Illinois Policy Academy
Thoughts and Ideas from the Illinois NGA Advisory Team
Key to the development of an infrastructure is collaboration -between education, business, and communities, -between aging and youth programs and -between cultural and socioeconomic groups • We must open our eyes and minds to new ways of doing things • Economic strength will come by creating a consciousness of the global society and how Illinois must compete.
Older Workers Charles Johnson, director, Illinois Department on Aging and Team Leader for the NGA Policy Academy, asks the advisory group to • Consider the impact of business and what they provide their thoughts on civic engagement in Illinois. need to know about planning future workforces Clockwise: Ashley Dearborn, Illinois Board of Higher Education; • Some retirees want to work, some have to work. Dave Bennett, Illinois Press Association; Terry Solomon, African American Family Commission; Amy Sherman, CAEL; Bob Gallo, Voluntering AARP; Nancy Chen, Womens Bureau, Dept. of Labor, Johnson, and Senator Ed Maloney, chair, Higher Education Committee • Identify organizations that help volunteers get involved and hone management skills • Just as P-20 emphasizes communication between all Connections and Publicity levels of education, volunteer management emphasizes • Provide information on what exists communication between organizations targeting • Remember that asking is the most important word in volunteer recruitment volunteers. • Develop a database of information about • There are many existing resources in the state: volunteer opportunities and retiree talents Our challenge is to identify them, understand • Tell the stories of retiree engagement their missions in relation to civic engagement, and • Use all forms of technology, such as social involve them. networks and web sites for connecting older adults • Publicize the realities of liability to volunteer opportunities. Learning • Share information and opportunities because • Work with the Lifelong Consortium of Older Learner everyone can deliver information to their constiuents Programs to reach older learners who aren’t engaged • Find and highlight exemplary programs so that • Word-of-mouth recruiting has been effective for all can experience the excitement and enthusiasm older learner programs. Policy Process • Develop education policy carefully and with the • Get the engagement concept coordinated in involvement of stakeholders. community colleges and universities • Civic engagement for older adults is for all 102 • Keep it simple counties in Illinois and as a result may reflect different • Though this is a statewide project, the community needs and different resources. All are valuable. and neighborhood are the focus for our activities. • Explore the process of adopting a legislator • The key is to develop support and identify an • Develop strategies for advocacy easy method to link talents with needs. • Prepare a resolution about civic engagement
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Illinois Policy Academy
Six Work Groups Mobilize Efforts for Civic Engagement
Workforce/Workplace, P-20 Education, Volunteer Management, Learning, Policy and Publicity.
Workforce Chair: Peggy Luce Objective: To help business understand the value of older workers and how the workforce will change with retirement of their skilled employees.
Policy Chairs: Mike O’Donnell, Marilyn Hennessy and Senator Ed Maloney Objective: Developing policy that supports civic engagement of 50+ Illinoisans
Volunteer Management Chairs: John Hosteny and Publicity & Media Chairs: Bob Gallo, Jane Angelis Bernie Wong & Charles Johnson Objective: Communicating the importance of civic Objective: Developing capacity for older volunteers and engagement to retirees, policymakers, employers, supporting effective management Workforce Assessment Tool Learning Chair: Bob Mees The Workforce Group is designing a workforce center to help Objective: Involving older dislocated older workers seeking assistance to find jobs and adults in learning programs disseminating the Workforce Assessment Tool* produced by AARP that will help employers in nine practice areas: for socialization, work, and enrichment • Capturing your Employee Age • Demographics • Assessing for Potential Skill Shortages • Knowledge Retention • Flexible Work Arrangements P-20 Education Chair:: John • Training and Development Opportunities • Benefits: Health and Financial Sirek • Workplace Accommodations Objective: Linking older • Positive Work Environment generations with volunteer • Recruitment
opportunities in schools and http://www.aarpworkforceassessment.org/template/index. with the youth-service network. cfm?CFID=16845991&CFTOKEN=67979377
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Illinois Policy Academy
Advisory Team: Illinois Policy Academy
• African American Family Commission, Terry Solomon, • Illinois Senate, Deanna Demuzio Executive Director • Illinois State Board of Education, Susie Morrison, • American Family History Institute, Pat Bearden, Director Deputy Superintendent • Chicago Life Opportunities: CJE Senior Life and Life • Illinois State Library, Sharon Ruda, Director, Blind and Ways: Anne Rich, Director Physically Handicapped • Changing Worlds, Mark Rodriguez, Executive Director • Intergenerational Advisor, Mary Walsh, Rosemont • Council for Adult and Experiential Learning, • Knox College Student, Colin Davis Amy Sherman, Director Workforce • Lt. Governor’s Office, Cory Foster • Choose Dupage: Michael Skarr, Investment Services Liaison to Learn and Serve, ISBE & Exec Dir Emeritus, Naperville Chamber of Commerce • Lifelong: The Illinois Coalition of Older Learners, Maria • Coalition of Limited English Speaking Elderly (CLESE), Malayter & Center for Positive Aging, National-Louis Univ. Marta Pereyra, executive director • Loyola Univeristy Chicago, Don Wycliff, Distinguished • Depaul University Student, IL Campus Compact, Ericc Journalist in Residence Powell, VISTA Leader • Midwest Peace Corps, Virginia Koch, Regional Manager • Executive Service Corps,Marcia Lipitz, Executive Director • National Able Network, Inc: Grace Jenkins, CEO • HURRAH, Naperville Intergenerational Program, Russ • Northwestern University (and non-traditional student Marineau, Director representative IBHE), Ashley Dearborn • Illinois Association of Community Action Agencies, • Retirees Leading Initiative, Carol Davis, Director and Dalitso Sulamayo, executive director Vice President, Spoon River College • Illinois Association of School Boards, Linda Dawson, • SCORE (Senior Corps of Retired Executives), James Director of Editorial Services Forstall and Emeritus IL Board of Higher Education • Illinois Campus Compact: Kathy Engelken, Exec. Director • Serve Illinois (Commission on Volunteerism), Scott • Illinois Council on Aging: Gene Verdu, President Nierman, Executive Director • Illinois Community College Board, Elaine Johnson, • SIU Edwardsville, Roger Maclean, Director of Outreach Senior Director Workfoce Development • State Universities Annuitants Association, Linda • Illinois Community College Trustees Association, Joan Brookhart, Executive Director DiLeonardi,Treasurer & Bd member, Oakton Com. College • University of Illinois Extension, Judith Richardson, • Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic • University of Illinois Urbana Champaign and Student Oppor tunity, Mike Baker, Workforce Development Representative IBHE, Jerry Thor • Illinois Principals Association, Jason Leahy, Exec. Director • Women’s Bureau, US Department of Labor: Nancy • Illinois Press Association: Dave Bennett, Exec. Director Chen, Director
Core Team: Illinois Policy Academy
Core Team Leadership Team Leader: Charles D. Johnson, director, Illinois Department on Aging Project Director: Jane Angelis, director, Intergenerational Initiative, Southern Illinois University Carbondale
Core Team Members Bob Gallo, state director, AARP Marilyn Hennessy, retiree and trustee, Retirement Research Foundation John Hosteny, Illinois director, Corporation for National and Community Service Peggy Luce, vice president, Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce Edward Maloney, chair, Senate Higher Education Committee Robert Mees, president, Illinois Community College Council of Presidents, and president, John A. Logan College Michael O’Donnell, executive director, East Central Illinois Area Agency on Aging and liaison, IL Assoc. of AAA John Sirek, director, Citizenship, McCormick Foundation Bernarda Wong, president, Chinese American Service League
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Solving Problems through Creative Dialogue
Solving Problems through Creative Dialogue
Generations Connect: An Illinois Tradition
ounger and older generations are often isolated from oneY another but when they get together, “We find solutions to problems,” said one retiree during a meeting called, putting our heads together. A student chimed in, “When we don’t have opportunities to talk to our elders, we don’t learn about the real world from those who are the experts in survival.”
Generations Connect conversations foster communication between First Lady Michelle Obama (center front) was a leader in the Generations Connect students and retirees and bring discussions held in preparation for the 1995 White House Conference on Aging. On December 14, 1994, Public Allies, a youth service organization chaired by Michelle new momentum to solve old Obama and RSVP, an organization of Retired Senior Volunteers, led by Keith Chase- problems. These conversations Ziolek participated in a discussion on intergenerational issues. The dialogue between started in 1988 when one of young people and older adults was one of 30 held throughout Illinois. Michelle Obama was the founding executive director of Public Allies Chicago. the early advisors, Pat Brady, vice president of the Board of called A Circle of Helping explored discussions in Chicago and Governors, led a “speakout” ways that generations could help Springfield called the Three C’s during the Governors Conference one another. They discovered of Intergenerational Success: on Aging. The most common that their perceptions about the Communication, Comfort and theme was “Let’s do this again.” purpose in life and education Creativity. Older and younger generations were similar. No intergenerational want to have more time together. conflict here! In 1992 Helene Block In 1993, twelve meetings were Fields of Oakton Community held based on the John Gardner In 1990, seven regional discussions College convened two major philosophy that “Most men
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Aging is an Asset
Solving Problems through Creative Dialogue
and women go through their lives using no more than a fraction––usually a rather small fraction––of the potentialities within them.” RSVP programs throughout the state joined with community colleges and universities to explore the potential for tapping the “reservoir of intergenerational talents.” In 1994 thirty intergenerational groups came together in dialogue to discuss how they could foster more connections between generations. In August of 2000, Keith Sanders, executive director of the Illinois Board of Higher These meetings were held in Education (far left on panel) welcomed leaders from aging, education and service. Forty-five people squeezed around tables in the Chatterton Room at IBHE to discuss the preparation for the 1995 White benefits of service learning and how education could foster civic reponsibility. House Conference on Aging and the results were published in a In 2003, younger and older the world a better place, the most White Paper that was part of the generations came together to common response was “Create a preparatory materials for the discuss family stories and how climate of understanding.” Conference. they could promote the saving of their stories. Through oral In 2005, the first Senate Forum A Healthy Aging for All Ages was history interviews, students gain on Intergenerational Leadership the topic of conversations in 1996. communication skills and stories brought university students and Old and young discovered they from elders are recorded. retirees together in the Senate had many similarities including Chamber. That scene was repeated “eating too much junk food,” and Generations should in 2007. “We have to do this more some started setting goals for often, said young and old from good health. In 1998-99 business have more contact and the podium of the Senate.” It is a people and students met in 15 Generations Connect mutual feeling that generations communities around the state to meetings have planted should have more contact and talk about the workforce and how Generations Connect meetings students should prepare. Work the seeds. have planted the seeds. ethic was a popular topic. Students readily admitted that older In 2005 presidents and chancellors generations had a strong dose. on 30 campuses sponsored Generations Connect conversations In 2000 the Governor’s Summit on about the interaction between Aging provided another discussion younger and older generations. of the contributions of older A survey of those involved adults to education. That year also pointed to several ideas about marked a new discussion about how they could make changes. service learning and its importance Just under 70% thought that Dave Christionsen, a retiree from SIUC, to Illinois students and all Illinois they would benefit from more joins students in a small-group discussion. citizens. Keith Sanders, the head of intergenerational contact and IBHE, led the discussion. when asked how they could make
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Solving Problems through Creative Dialogue
Let’s Talk about Public Policy that Impacts Older and Younger Generations By Patrick Callan and Andrew L. Yarrow
is a major culprit, manifested in such problems as vast overhead costs, overuse of medical services, insufficient competition and lack of information about cost-effective practices.
The United States also spends about 3 percent of GDP on higher education - again, roughly twice the percentage of virtually every other
Patrick Callan developed country. While health- Andrew L. Yarrow care costs have risen 2.5 percentage hile America’s deepening points faster than economic growth, education and health care. No more. economic woes cast a pall higher education costs have To make matters worse, a nation overW the nation, long-term U.S. increased about 3.5 percentage whose cherished ideals of equality fortunes are profoundly threatened points faster than GDP growth for were advanced immeasurably by parallel crises of cost, quality, the last several decades. Exploding during the 20th century by the access, and equity in health care higher education costs have caused diffusion of high-quality health and higher education. Once-proud real student loan debt to more than care and higher education now has symbols of national greatness, double in a decade. become troublingly inequitable in these sectors no longer deliver both. world-class results, are increasingly Government support through Pell inequitable, and elicit growing Grants and other student assistance The World Health Organization discontent from many Americans. has risen, but cost increases have reports that about three dozen outpaced public investment in other nations have better aggregate The U.S. health care bill is $2.3 financial aid. Reasons for this cost health-care outcomes than America, trillion, 16 percent of gross domestic growth include the knowledge- and the RAND Corporation finds product - roughly double the based global economy and rising that barely half the treatments percentage for Western Europe, aspirations creating a seller’s Americans receive are considered Canada, Japan, and other rich market for college; an “arms race” “best practices.” Similarly, the countries. Spending is rising by among colleges to have the fanciest United States is no longer the world 7 percent a year, with Medicare facilities; and weak financial leader in college access, and is in increasing by 13 percent in accountability and few incentives the bottom half in Organization 2007. Escalating health-care for controlling costs. The problem for Economic Cooperation and costs are the leading cause of would be bad enough if it were Development rankings in college personal bankruptcy and are why just a matter of cost. But it’s not. completion rates and 10th in the America’s $10.6 trillion national Not long ago, the United States proportion of its 25-to-35-year-old debt is projected to soar. Waste was arguably tops in both higher population that is college-educated.
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Solving Problems through Creative Dialogue
Higher education increasingly greedy, insensitive, incompetent four-year colleges become seamless, reflects and reinforces inequities and dishonest. reducing costly and redundant in American society. Large gaps in course repetition? Can state finance college access associated with race Likewise, three-fourths of and accountability systems increase and income have not narrowed for Americans are worried about college access and completion? decades. The wealthy can afford college costs and debt. Barely half Do four-year colleges need to look Ivy League tuitions, the upper think that students get a valuable like swank corporate conference middle class falls into debt to attend return on higher education. Half centers? And should scarce financial flagship state universities, the lower believe that colleges “mainly care aid now used to compete for middle class also borrows heavily about the bottom line.” And three- gifted - but less needy - students to enroll in regional state colleges fifths think that talented students be refocused to qualified students and community colleges, and poor lack the opportunity to attend strapped for resources? Americans simply lack college college; among African-Americans How to control health-care costs opportunity. What’s more, the and Hispanics the proportions are is an even tougher nut to crack. quality of much of higher education even higher. Universal insurance - with itself has declined, sliding behind government premium support, both earlier U.S. standards and those The danger to a prosperous, combined with some “managed of many other countries. optimistic American future is competition” among insurance enormous. Serious cost control, providers and greater cost-sharing - At the same time, nearly 50 million accountability for high-quality are important. Increased regulation Americans lack health insurance, outcomes, and greater equity are of health-care providers and their tens of millions have limited medical desperately needed. Systemic costs, greater emphasis on public coverage, and millions more may overhaul of health care and higher health and prevention, medical lose coverage due to the current education requires an outcry malpractice reform, some rationing economic crisis. Access to good care from the public and the business of care, and use of information varies tremendously by income. A community, as well as political technology to disseminate best and sizable population faces the triple champions who understand that most-cost-effective practices and whammy of inadequate insurance larger public subsidies without maintain a national medical records coverage, poor health behaviors, substantial reforms will not suffice; database also could help. and lower-quality health providers greater engagement by health-care - compared to a decently covered and higher-education leaders; and Without such changes, even with middle class and a health-conscious public-policy intervention that additional public investments elite with access to the world’s recognizes the failure of market proposed by President-elect Barack best medicine. This has created a mechanisms to yield quality, Obama and others, America will trifurcation of American health care affordability and access. be less and less likely to be healthy, equivalent to a beat-up Chevy, a new wealthy or wise. Toyota and a Rolls-Royce. Higher education needs substantial rethinking about delivery and Patrick M. Callan is president of the National Few Americans are satisfied with financing. Can online instruction Center for Public Policy and Higher Educa- tion. Andrew L. Yarrow is the vice president their medical care. The once- be adapted and broadened and Washington director of Public Agenda, friendly and admired image of a to strengthen learning and and author of the new book, “Forgive Us Our selfless corps of Marcus Welbys has reduce costs? Can colleges work Debts: The Intergenerational Dangers of Fis- cal Irresponsibility.” given way to a more widespread collectively with high schools to This article is reprinted with permission of belief that doctors, hospitals, and identify readiness standards? Can the authors. It was published in the Jan. 11, pharmaceutical companies are transfer of credits among two- and 2009, edition of The Baltimore Sun.
24 Fall 2008/Winter 2009 Continuance Magazine www.siu.edu/offices/iii Continuance Magazine www.siu.edu/offices/iii Fall 2008/Winter 2009 25
Solving Problems through Creative Dialogue
Public Agenda’s Students Face Up to the Nation’s Finances Local Discussions Feature Public Agenda’s Students Face Up to the Nation’s Finances Aging is an Asset initiative provides a free package of learning materials (readings, for the Future films, slides, student discussion guides, surveys, Web links, and opportunities for students to contribute essays, videos, and The idea for Aging is an Asset Asset for the Workforce examined communicate online) designed came from a Senate Forum on the workforce in Illinois from to raise students’ awareness of Intergenerational Leadership. the perspective of the employer, our nation?s fiscal challenges College students said that they the worker, and education. The (our $10.6-trillion-and-growing wanted more contact with retirees. fifth on civic engagement was a national debt--exacerbated by the Retirees said, “Society doesn’t delightful experience comparing the current financial crisis--and its always consider us resources.” leadership and service perceptions causes and potentially calamitous of four generations. The sixth, and consequences), and engage Six of these forums have been held most recent, was on the media, how students across the nation in a over the last three years. The first it is changing and the trends for discussion of the solutions. on higher education opened the how older people use the media, door to discussion about retirees as particularly newspapers. The materials can be adopted students,volunteers, and advocates in part or as modules within for education. The second The Aging is an Asset Series is open existing classes, or used for considered the opportunities to local groups who want to gather other campus forums. We are for schools (P-20+) by involving information through focus groups especially interested in hearing retirees, connecting generations, and research about the impact of and gathering student opinions and establishing stronger aging on life in Illinois. Aging is an and ideas, which they can convey communication throughout the Asset discussions and policy papers as class assignments and submit education pipeline. The third, were produced on each topic and to www.facingup.org/students; based on the Blueprint for Elder- are available on the website. If you submissions will be eligible for Friendly Communities, explored are interested in hosting an Aging prizes each semester, and will the ways that communities should is an Asset Forum, see the website, . be used to better impress upon prepare for increased numbers www.siu.edu/offices/iii or contact policy makers and opinion leaders of older people and the role of Jane Angelis at jane.angelis@gmail. that young people care about our education in preparing for an aging com. nation?s fiscal future. society. The fourth, Aging is an
To review, download, and use our learning and discussion materials, please sign in at: http://www.facingup.org/faculty. If you have questions about this initiative Aging is an Asset: Rather than ask the question, or how best to use it in your class or on your campus, please go to our website What should we do with all these old people, ask and/or contact Andrew Yarrow, ayarrow@ what should be do with all these resources?” publicagenda.org or 202-719-9777, or Gail Gottlieb, [email protected] or 202-719-9752.
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Solving Problems through Creative Dialogue
Aging Population were held in Chicago, Springfield Offers Opportunity for and Bloomington, and the series Our State will create a statewide plan to engage retirees in various types of civic service and education.
Davis offered a forward-focused view of aging that differs markedly from what can be expected from mass media stereotypes. The Marty Davis, Director, Campaigns and baby boomers generally will Promotions, AARP be healthier, more active and more involved in employment, Davis and media participants education and civic participation discussed various ways to improve Gary Metro, Editor, Southern Illinoisan than any previous generation. They connections between the baby boom also will be more numerous than generation and their preferred People who view their long lives previous generations of seniors. sources of information - newspapers of work and experiences as strong and Web sites. Better communication selling points had to be encouraged Here are some of the characteristics will improve the link between by the news coming out of an to be expected of those who were unmet needs and willing and skilled important gathering Monday born between 1946 and 1962: volunteers, identify transportation at Southern Illinois University • Higher median household opportunities for those who do not Carbondale. incomes than their parents’ drive and enable older adults to generation, $66,000 compared to find areas in which they might seek Participants in the gathering, $34,000 employment, or perhaps a second “Aging is an Asset for the • Nearly a third of the group will career. Media,” heard many of those have completed at least four years selling points in a presentation of college The population of Illinois is aging, by Marty Davis, campaigns and • Nursing home populations are and our region already has a larger promotions director for AARP in declining, despite the growing population of older residents Washington, D.C. They learned of population of older Americans than other areas of the state. The a large and growing population • Those who are older than 50 numbers will increase annually, of aging adults - often referred control 77 percent of the nation’s but generally the new seniors will to as the baby boom generation financial assets and 57 percent of be active, healthy and seeking - who intend to remain engaged the nation’s discretionary income ways to remain connected with participants in all spheres of life. their communities. It is important Any generation will inevitably to recognize this demographic The gathering was the sixth in the experience the hardships of aging change as an opportunity and we Aging is an Asset Series, created to - illness, isolation, financial and commend the participants in the collect and examine information other hardships - but the growing Aging is an Asset Series for their about the experience of aging in body of information on the newest proactive efforts to improve the Illinois and the resulting impact generation of seniors indicates state of Illinois. on higher education, schools, those difficulties won’t characterize communities, the workforce and most of those people in their early With permission from the Southern Illi- civic engagement. Earlier sessions years of retirement. noisan: Editorial, Tuesday, October 21, 2008
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Lifelong Learning Coalition
Lifelong: A Coalition of Older Learner Programs in Community Colleges and Universities
National Speakers Series New Directions: Higher Education The election of new officers was for Older Adults, which was funded a business item and the current ith a growing population of by MetLife Foundation. President officers received the equivalent Wretirees and older learners, Charles Middleton of Roosevelt of a standing ovation. They have where is education headed? University and board member of served their colleagues well This was a question answered the American Council on Education through communication and during a new National-Speaker (ACE) introduced the speaker, providing useful information. New Series sponsored by the Lifelong Mary Beth Lakin. Participants in officers represent the four corners Coalition. The conference call joined the conference call offered insights of the state and will continue program directors from community on aging and how educational providing information about older colleges and universities to hear institutions relate to an aging learners and the programs that about a recent report, Mapping society. serve them.
Outgoing Officers and Executive Committee: Served from 2004-2008
L to R: Chair: Anita Revelle, Illinois State University, Normal; At Large: Lana Campbell, SIU Carbondale; Lori Crabtree, Rend Lake College Those who will continue: Maria Malayter, National Louis University, Lisle; Margaret Plaskas, Waubonsee Com- munity College, Sugar Grove Not Pictured: John Allen, Lincoln Land Community Col- lege, Mike Shore, Highland Community College, Free- port; Cheryl Barber, University of Illinois Urbana-Cham- paign
New Officers and Executive Committee: 2009-2011
L to R: Chair: Maria Malayter, National Louis University, Lisle; Vice Chair: Margaret Plaskas, Waubonsee Community College, Sugar Grove; At Large Member: Carol Davis, Spoon River College, Canton; At Large Member: Cheryl Brunsmann; SIU Edwardsville; At Large Member: Douglas Brauer, Richland Community College, Decatur
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Lifelong Learning Coalition
Purpose of the Lifelong Coalition • Support to New Programs • Conduct Research Those starting new programs find a wealth of Studies highlight the educational needs and interests experience and advice from other members. of retirees and their habits of volunteering.
• Welcome Retirees to Campuses • Increase Publicity about Older Learner Programs Older learner programs develop strategies to involve Lifelong informs boards, presidents, and the General retirees on campus as learners, mentors, advocates and Assembly about older learners and their contributions in second and third careers. to education and the economy.
• Discuss New Trends for Older Learners • Explore the Benefits of Civic Engagement The Lifelong Coalition advocates for policy and Lifelong will work with the new National Governors programs that address the educational needs and Association Illinois Policy Academy for Civic Engagement interests of retirees. to help connect retirees to learning, service and work.
Directory of Older Learner Programs in Illinois available at www.siu.edu/offices/iii
The Future of Education more in their own learning. More Lifelong, and for Older Learners than previous generations, they director, Senior are pursuing their interests more Professionals, Five experts provided comments deeply, are investigating new ideas ISU on the future of learning for the and technologies, and intend to aging society. Maria Malayter and contribute to society in deep and Anita Revelle head the Lifelong meaningful ways. For higher Coordinators for Coalition and John Neidy, Kathleen education, this shift translates academic lifelong Pecknold, and Judy Mann head into a new group of students learning programs need to take Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes. who bring much to the campus- a fresh look at new learners who including successful careers, are retiring. Many have college Jon Neidy, broad experiences, and substantial degrees and are looking for new director, Osher networks. Not only do these venues or programs to pursue Lifelong Learning lifelong learners offer colleges and in their retirement. These new Institute, universities the opportunity to learners aka “Baby Boomers” like Bradley gain new supporters and broaden flexibility in their schedules, which University community ties. They also present might mean revamping schedules higher education with a wonderful by offering class throughout the Americans are opportunity to develop programs year and in different time formats. retiring in ways and services that will engage these For example, classes might include different from their parents and learners in the campus community. two days a week for two weeks grandparents. They’re retiring In terms of outcomes, it creates an instead of four times a month. This both earlier and later, exploring interdependent group of learners schedule allows older learners second (or third or fourth) and campus administrators more time for traveling and other careers, are giving back to their who construct true learning activities. Illinois State University communities, and expecting more communities that benefit everyone attracts these new learners through from their retirement experience. involved. It’s worth exploring. current event issues such as As they age, they are also engaging Anita Revelle, outgoing chair, the Middle East, the economy, historical classes and overviews of
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Lifelong Learning Coalition the economy, historical classes and Kathleen Judy Mann, overviews of specific countries Pecknold, director, director, Osher or regions. Trying new classes Osher Lifelong Lifelong Learning sometimes is a gamble, but the pay Learning Institute, Institute, off can mean big rewards for the University of Northwestern program and new students. Illinois Urbana- University, Champaign Evanston Maria Malayter, chair, Lifelong Like other Osher Lifelong Learning There are more than 500 lifelong Coalition, and Institutes (OLLI) at colleges and learning programs across North director, Center universities around the country, America. These programs are part for Creative the University of Illinois differs of a worldwide phenomenon that Aging, National from traditional lifelong learning is helping change the way society Louis University programs in several major respects. looks at older adults and their It is the model for the future for continued involvement in life. A vision of the future reveals the older adult learning programs. idea that learning will not end OLLI at Northwestern was with formal academic schooling First, the organization is member established in 1987 as the Institute but will continue throughout one’s driven. We have an elected Board, for Learning in Retirement, one of life. Learning will be a continuous which appoints committees only a few peer-led programs in process embracing a balance of on administration and budget, the U.S. OLLI now has over 500 work, personal, and community-life curriculum, membership, members on two Northwestern commitments. and volunteerism. Members campuses and offers over 60 study recommend the budget (including groups. In this program, many are Multigenerational learning and member fees), develop strategic still active in their fields, semi- mentoring environments will plans, decide what intellectually retired or volunteering. This is be fostered throughout local stimulating courses and study direction in which lifelong learning residential communities to promote groups should be offered (and is headed: toward the actively inclusion for all ages. Federal who should teach them), plan engaged learner. OLLI at NU is and state agencies will maintain membership recruitment and committed to the concept that clearinghouses of information for retention strategies, and review older learners learn best when they integration of incoming residents volunteer opportunities. are active in their own learning into the learning, work, and civic process. At OLLI, “Curiosity Never experiences of the community. In There are no tests or grades; Retires.” addition, a government research courses and activities take place team will monitor lifespan theories in a supportive environment with Northwestern’s OLLI members every five years to ensure policies members from diverse backgrounds also lend oversight to almost for citizens are appropriate for full who are united by a love of learning all aspects of the program: engagement in the community and an enthusiasm for staying governance, communications, throughout a lifetime. Finally, young in mind and spirit. As one membership, curriculum and social when the US becomes the global of our members put it, “We have activities. A stunning literary and leader once more, citizens and created a playground for the mind!” art OLLI Journal is the culmination immigrants of this country will of a year of creativity. embrace and honor human beings throughout their life.
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Lifelong Learning Coalition
The Story Behind the Osher Foundation
Mary G.F. Bitterman, president of the Bernard Osher Foundation shared the following story about the Osher Foundation. She wrote “Of the many deserving causes to support in the world, Mr. Osher has been deeply compelled to assist the education of re-entry students and seniors – two important social groups who are often overlooked by the traditional educational system.” She sent her good wishes to all Illinois older learner programs.
Bernard Osher being of the Institute members, The Foundation supports a Founder of the Osher Foundation whether they are 50 or 100 years of growing national lifelong learning San Francisco, California age (our institutes have members network for seasoned adults. The across that full chronological range). Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes, My four siblings and I had the operating on the campuses of 123 benefit of a college education – an I’ve befriended numerous seniors institutions of higher education opportunity unavailable to our who feel life has passed them by from Maine to Hawaii, have a parents who immigrated from once they hit 80, and others who National Resource Center at the Russia and Lithuania. I decided continue to tackle new challenges University of Southern Maine. early on to support scholarships into their late 90s – what makes the http://www.osherfoundation.org for people who desired education difference for those willing to learn but had severely limited financial something new even later in life? resources. I know what a big From the American Council difference higher education makes As far as I am concerned, on Education and the in a person’s life – enhancing every day presents ongoing MetLife Foundation career choices, earning power, and opportunities to learn. For me, self-esteem – and I would like to the challenges range from keeping help as many people as possible abreast of stock market activities to have that chance. The letters I and expanding my knowledge of have received from Osher Reentry opera texts to reading all manner Scholars are particularly moving of periodicals and books on as they describe the difficulties international affairs, American – academic, social, and economic -- history and mid-19th to mid-20th of returning to college after a break century American painters, Jewish of several years. life, integrative medicine, and scientific innovations. The one I am convinced that continued absolutely new endeavor that I learning is an essential ingredient began last year when I turned 80 for leading a healthy and was piano lessons. I am making Mapping New Directions: Higher Education productive life. The stimulating progress overall and there are days for Older Adults points the way to greater courses, special lectures, travel when I think my practice playing postsecondary participation among older programs, and social events is reasonably good – but then there adults. conducted by each of the 123 Osher are days when my fingers won’t http://www.acenet.edu/Content/Naviga- Institutes are quite remarkable and talk to me. I am fortunate to have tionMenu/ProgramsServices/CLLL/Rein- enhance the happiness and well- a gifted and forgiving teacher. vesting/MapDirections.pdf
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Resources and Events
Aging 2009 Aging in America Don’t Cheat the Children Connecting Generations Through GrandFriendships Annual Conference of the American Society on Aging and Helene Block Fields the National Council on Aging In this conversational-style book March 15-19 | Las Vegas, NV written for parents and seniors, intergenerational pioneer Helene Aging in America, the 2009 Annual Block-Fields tells powerful Conference of the American true stories of children who Society on Aging and the grew stronger, smarter and National Council on Aging takes more compassionate because of place March 15-19 in Las Vegas. interactions with seniors who The ASA-NCOA Conference, shared their time and wisdom with with nearly 4,000 attendees, is them. recognized as a showcase for programs and projects that can She defines her new word, be replicated, a forum for policy GrandFriendships, as “comfortable discussion and advocacy, and a two-way connections between prime source of information on children and trustworthy related • Action Steps for parents new research findings in aging. It is or non-related seniors who and seniors to jump-start the largest gathering of a diverse, live near one another.” The GrandFriendships multidisciplinary community of most time-honored examples professionals from the fields of of these connections are those “Our children’s and aging, healthcare and education, between caring grandparents and grandchildren’s futures will be along with business leaders from grandchildren. However, in today’s jeopardized if we don’t begin across the United States. fragmented society, additional creating and honoring more GrandFriendships are much needed GrandFriendships now. “ HBF With someone turning 50 every by both generations. Guidelines seven seconds, the demands and for parents are included to help set challenges to meet the needs of up these connections in families, this growing population increase neighborhoods, schools, places of by the minute. As a member of this worship, and other safe settings. dynamic conference community, Significantly, the “payback” for the you’ll be among leaders in the seniors is, in the words of a popular fielexploring original ideas, fresh ad, priceless. approaches, latest research and future opportunities essential to The book includes: your continued effectiveness. • Reasons why GrandFriendships are needed in today’s stressed-out http://www.agingconference.org/ society asav2/conf/jc/jc09/index2.cfm • The story of elementary school kids bonding with the frail elderly • Powerful feedback from those www.grandfriendships.com, or same kids 20 years later on amazon.com
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The Last Word
Key Principles for Public Engagement From the Public Agenda
Public Agenda has been involved in public engagement for over thirty years, and our experience has taught us the differences between authentic public engagement and “business-as-usual” approaches to public involvement. These principles are key for true public engagement:
1. Begin by listening. Be alert to more effectively, but it is equally 9. Respond thoughtfully and the issues that non-experts care important to avoid overloading conscientiously to the public’s about, the language they use to people with a “data dump.” involvement. It is critical that discuss them, and their concerns, leaders respond to the public’s misperceptions and initial sense of 6. Help people move beyond deliberations. For instance, direction with respect to solutions. wishful thinking. The trade-offs participants should be informed of that are embedded in any issue that the ways their ideas and concerns 2. Attend to people’s leading citizens must confront should be are being incorporated into the concerns. When there are gaps brought to the surface. Challenging work. Moreover, it means taking between the priorities of leaders and leaders who pander to people’s the time to explain why some ideas those of the public, it is important wishful thinking and providing are not being incorporated. Doing to recognize that people will be corrective information once it’s so deepens people’s understanding most receptive to leaders’ concerns become clear the public is “hung of the issues and fosters mutual if the issues that they themselves up” on a misperception or is lacking respect. are already feeling most concerned vital information are key tasks here. about are acknowledged and being 10. Build long-term capacity as addressed by leaders. 7. Expect obstacles and resistance. you go. When done well, each It takes time, and repeated round of public engagement will 3. Reach beyond the “usual opportunities, for people to really set the stage for broader and deeper suspects.” Find ways to include work through problems, absorb public engagement in the future. the broader public, especially those information about the trade-offs The work should always operate whose voices have traditionally of different approaches, and build on two levels simultaneously: On been excluded. common ground. one level it is about addressing a concrete problem, such as improving 4. Frame issues for deliberation. 8. Create multiple, varied education, public safety or jobs. Help people wrestle with the opportunities for deliberation On another it is about building differing perspectives, and the pros and dialogue. People need to go the capacity for a democratic and cons of going down different through a variety of stages to come community to communicate and paths. to terms with an issue. decide what collaborate effectively in order to approach they are willing to support solve its common problems and 5. Provide the right type and and figure out how they can make enrich its public life. amount of information at the right their own contribution. Community http://www.publicagenda.org/files/pdf/ time. It is helpful to provide people Conversations, “study circles,” public_engagement_primer.pdf with carefully selected, essential, online engagement strategies and nonpartisan information up front media partnerships are a few of the in order to help them deliberate possibilities.
Save the Date - May 11, 2009
A Day of Celebration and Conversation about the Civic Engagment of Older Adults
“The American people are ready to serve their communities, but not enough have been asked or know how.” President Barack Obama
“Everyone can serve!” Governor Patrick Quinn
The Capitol, Springfield, Illinois 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Join the Illinois Team of the National Governors Association Policy Academy on the Civic Engagement of Older Adults
Help Celebrate Older Americans Month and AmeriCorps Week
Learn more about increasing service, work and learning for retirees
For information: Gidget Freeberg, Illinois Department on Aging 217-557-8312
Continuance Magazine Office of the Associate Chancellor for Diversity Southern Illinois University Carbondale Mailcode 4341 Carbondale, Il 62901