In early August, the YMCA and U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy teamed up for A New Way to Move, a weeklong initiative promoting physical activity that connects kids and older adults. I wrote about it for AARP.
As a believer in programs and campaigns that build intergenerational solidarity, I’m inspired by this partnership. In a world that’s so often segregated by age, it’s important to have opportunities to come into contact with people of different generations. And if those opportunities get people up and out from behind their screens, too, that’s a win-win.
But why limit it to children and older adults? And why limit it to one week?
Age-friendly areas, or livable communities, aim to engage people of all ages, all year long. While a seven-day initiative is a great start — and a great push to raise awareness — we’re poised to reach higher, in my opinion. Cities, towns and organizations, as well as community members giving back on their own, can provide opportunities for people to move and participate in life together.
Read on to check out my ideas. What are yours?