PITT CONFERENCE TO OFFER SEED GRANTS FOR INTERGENERATIONAL PROGRAMS

PITTSBURGH, March 20 -- Programs that unite young people with senior citizens will be the focus of an all-day conference, sponsored in part by Generations Together, the University of Pittsburgh's program of intergenerational studies. "Seeds to Success: An Intergenerational Conference" takes place on Friday, April 14 from

8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. at the University Club, 123 University Place, Oakland.

The event will encourage administrators from local human service organizations to apply for seed grants of $1,500, to be used to establish a program that brings children or teens in contact with the elderly.

The conference will highlight several successful intergenerational programs that were born out of a similar conference three years ago. Information will be available on planning or expanding intergenerational programs, finding an idea for a program or a group of young or old people to partner with, and learning the skills to sustain a successful program.

Another goal of the conference is to establish a Western Pennsylvania Intergenerational Network, the first effort of its kind in Allegheny County. Conference guests include Senator Tim Murphy of the 37th Senatorial District, Pittsburgh Mayor Tom Murphy, and a representative from the office of Allegheny County Executive Jim Roddey.

The cost of the all-day conference is $40, which includes a continental breakfast and lunch. Participants are encouraged to register beforehand. Limited on-site registration is available. Contact Tanesha Carter at (412) 648-7150, or register on-line at www.pitt.edu/~gti.

-30- 3/20/00/shg