Communities for All Ages

Communities for All Ages (CFAA) is a place-based, asset-based community building approach that brings together residents of all ages, community organizations, and policy makers to address issues of concern to multiple generations. The CFAA initiative focuses on issues such as family support, housing, transportation, lifelong learning, civic engagement, and health. The initiative uses a life span approach to community building and works on moving individuals and organizations out of age silos and into powerful multi-generational collaborations. The life span approach involves three phases: (1) Public Awareness: workshops to educate the public about the value of community building; (2) Assessment and Planning: bringing together key stakeholders to identify common concerns and develop strategies that benefit multiple generations; and (3) Implementation. CFAA uses multiple strategies to address community issues including (1) developing multi-generational learning centers in rural areas; (2) creating an Intergenerational Leadership Academy for residents of low-income housing developments; (3) creating neighborhood centers that promote health and wellness; (4) organizing a community wide coalition to promote lifelong health and wellness.

The goal of the CFAA initiative is to promote community building across ages. The life span approach promotes the well-being of children, youth, and older adults; strengthens families; and provides opportunities for ongoing interaction across ages.

Communities for All Ages is currently operating in 13 sites in Arizona, Westchester County, NY, and Brunswick, ME. Outcomes have been evaluated in multiple communities. Early outcomes showed increased involvement in community improvement efforts, increased interaction across ages and cultures, increased service, and an enhanced sense of empowerment. In addition, the communities improved their physical environments and there was evidence of increased community pride.