AmeriCorps Seniors demonstration grant will fund innovative programming in AGE to age sites

The Northland Foundation has been awarded an American Rescue Act/ARP AmeriCorps Seniors demonstration grant of $500,000 over two years to support inter-generational programming in Northeast Minnesota, leveraging the Foundation’s well-established AGE to age: bringing generations together network of sites across the region.

Engaging older adults with children and youth is a winning combination. Over the next two years, 12 AGE to age communities will leverage the skills and experience of 500 older adult volunteers to support children and youth in tutoring, out-of-school time,  and summer enrichment activities.

“AGE to age sites are in a perfect position to use this new federal funding to build on their existing programs and continue to reduce social isolation across generations.”

Tony Sertich, President

The new grant is made possible by the historic $1 billion investment in AmeriCorps through the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 to provide immediate relief from the pandemic, with a specific focus on support for underserved and disproportionately impacted communities.

AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers stay healthy and active through service, improving their own lives as they improve the lives of others. A growing body of research affirms the numerous mental and physical health benefits of volunteering, including lower mortality rates, decreased rates of depression, and increased strength and energy.