PITT'S "GENERATIONS TOGETHER" WINS STATE AWARD

PITTSBURGH, Nov. 16 -- The University of Pittsburgh's "Generations Together"—a program of intergenerational studies—has received the Governor's Silver and Gold Award for its work in uniting young people with the older population in programs and activities that benefit both parties.

The Silver and Gold Awards, presented recently at a ceremony in Harrisburg, were created by the Pennsylvania Department of Aging to commemorate this year as the "International Year of Older Persons -- Toward a Society for All Ages," as proclaimed by Governor Tom Ridge in cooperation with the United Nations.

Generations Together, a pioneering effort in the intergenerational field, won the award for "its work to forge a union between older adults and youth." It was among ten winners selected from 250 statewide nominees in five separate categories: Independence, Participation, Care, Self-Fulfillment and Dignity.

Generations Together develops, supports and studies programs that bring the young and old together, to foster understanding of both generations. Its work includes the youth serving the frail elderly; older adults tutoring or mentoring children and youth at risk; youth and elders working together in the community; and an Artist Resource Program that enriches young people through at-school workshops conducted by older artists and musicians.

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