In this episode of the Voices of Aging, we’re joined by Grace Savard, a dual-degree Master of Public Health and Master of Public Policy student at the University of Minnesota, to talk about the Intergenerational Community Health Collaborative (ICHC), a partnership connecting university students with older adults at The Pillars of Prospect Park.
Grace shares how the ICHC grew out of a desire for meaningful, sustained intergenerational connection and evolved into a collaborative space where students and older adults learn from one another, select topics together, and take action on issues that matter. Monthly gatherings have included guest speakers, community events, and advocacy work, including joint testimony delivered by students and residents to the Minnesota Legislative Task Force on Aging.
This conversation highlights the power of building shared leadership across generations, and creating spaces where people of all ages can connect and learn from one another. Grace also reflects on the challenges and rewards of this work, how it’s shaped her own path in aging and policy, and what advice she has for others hoping to start intergenerational initiatives in their communities.
The Voices of Aging podcast is made possible by our Podcast Co-hosts, Christina Cauble & Kelly Moeller, and Audio Editing Manager, Alishba Khan.
For more information on the Aging Studies Interdisciplinary Group and the University of Minnesota Center for Healthy Aging and Innovation, visit: https://www.sph.umn.edu/research/centers/chai/education/asigg/
