When participants and observers of various intergenerational programs were asked to think of the first word that comes to mind when they think of the program, the word “joyful” was front and center. Intergenerational relationships radiate joy for the participants and for the entire community. Beyond creating and participating in joyful moments as motivation to support and create more of these relationships, there are many other important benefits for all the stakeholders in the program, including children, elders, school staff, and families. These include and are not limited to creating belonging, dispelling loneliness, combating ageism, and practicing shared leadership and systemic thinking.

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