An intergenerational program in Bungendore, located approximately 30 minutes from Canberra, facilitates weekly interactions between high school students and older community members at a local hall.
Program Overview
The program, a collaboration between BaptistCare and Bungendore High School, aims to bridge generational gaps. Participants engage in various activities, including knitting trauma teddies and sharing personal narratives.
Participant Perspectives
Carmela Moore, a senior participant, initially reported apprehension about interacting with younger individuals but noted that conversations flowed naturally once interactions began. Moore also expressed satisfaction with the students' commitment to completing their knitting projects.
Year 9 student Nalda Barrett stated that her initial motivation for joining was resume enhancement but reported developing connections with community members outside her peer group. Barrett also indicated learning new skills, including knitting and interpersonal communication.
Another student, Sophia Duffy, described the process of learning to knit trauma teddies as a calming activity once proficiency was achieved.
Lyn Mitchell, a participant in her 80s, composed a song to help teenagers understand aspects of aging. Mitchell reported that the program provided her and her peers with a greater understanding of the challenges faced by the younger generation. She also noted increased recognition of students from the program within the Bungendore community.
Organisational Observations
Susie Hall, a teacher at Bungendore High School, observed that students transitioned from initial nervousness to active engagement in the program, demonstrating increased respect for older participants and the process of listening. The program has been operational for two years.
Andrew Selmes of BaptistCare described the program as beneficial for their clients, noting enhanced social engagement and opportunities for personal storytelling. Selmes also reported that connections formed through the program have extended beyond scheduled sessions.
Conclusion
The 2025 program cycle concluded with a showcase where students presented projects based on the life stories shared by older participants. Plans are underway for the program's continued operation.