Health Buddies Exemplifies Intergenerational Excellence

Health Buddies has been selected as one of eleven Programs of Distinction by Generations United, a powerful network of member organizations, partners, and stakeholders who have been a leader in intergenerational strategies for over 30 years. This distinction recognizes Health Buddies ability to creatively and effectively engage younger and older people in activities that strengthen relationships between the generations.

“We congratulate these programs for earning these distinctions and their dedication to high-quality intergenerational practices,” said Donna Butts, Executive Director of Generations United. “Achieving this recognition is a major accomplishment. The Intergenerational Program Certification is the only U.S. ‘seal of approval’ for intergenerational programs and the application and review process are rigorous.”

Health Buddies engages students from the University of South Florida to provide “companionship as medicine” for seniors living with chronic conditions. Through supportive weekly phone calls, college-aged volunteers help aging clients improve their health knowledge, resulting in a decrease in preventable hospital visits. In addition to helping seniors self-manage their health, younger generations benefit from the wisdom and perspectives shared by older adults. Both generations feel valued and benefit from the social connection created through Health Buddies.