What is Inter-Generational Programming?

The Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Inter-Generational Center is a worldwide model of excellence for serving people with disabilities. By providing programs for seniors, adults, and children in a shared center, Easterseals DC MD VA creates opportunities for everyone to contribute at all stages of life through daily multi-generational activities. We are working to build a society that truly values people of all ages and abilities. The Easterseals DC MD VA inter-generational center is located at our headquarters in Silver Spring, Maryland.

CDC

Child Development Center (CDC)
Easterseals provides inclusive, early intervention and education for children with and without disabilities from six weeks old until kindergarten. We offer full-day, year-round child development, parental support and inter-generational activities to maximize the physical, cognitive, social and emotional development of every child regardless of their family's ability to pay. 

ADS

Adult Day Services (ADS)
Easterseals Adult Day Center provides daily care for a diverse population of seniors and adults while supporting their family caregivers and delaying or even preventing the need for nursing home care. Our skilled staff of registered nurses, social workers, certified nursing aides, physical and occupational therapists, and recreational directors are highly trained to address even the most complex medical issues and provide comprehensive and compassionate care for each individual in the program. 

IG-Respite

Respite & Caregiver Support
 Easterseals Respite Services provide critical support to families who care for children with disabilities or special needs. With our help, parents get a break from caregiving duties, allowing them to focus on other family members, or themselves, while preventing burnout and keeping families whole. Caregiving services include center-based respite days, which take place monthly at the Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Inter-Generational Center, and 40 hours per month of in-home respite care for military families. 

 VSN

Veteran Staffing Network (VSN)
Easterseals Veteran Staffing Network provides coaching, groundbreaking online assessment and training to help veterans build the skills and confidence they need to develop a long-term career, not just get a job. The VSN operates as a staffing agency, which helps employers meet their hiring goals with highly skilled, trained and prepared veterans. Furthermore, the VSN understands the job does not end at the placement. Continued support is provided as needed for veterans and their families to ensure lifelong success. 

Benefits of shared site inter-generational programming include:

  • Quality and caring services for adults and children
  • Enhanced quality of life for all participants
  • Improved attitude about different age groups
  • Enhanced social skills
  • Improved academic performance/learning stimulation
  • Increased stability/emotional support
  • Improved health

Research indicates that participants in inter-generational shared sites benefit both children and adults.

  • Preschool children had higher social developmental scores
  • Children gained enhanced perceptions of persons with disabilities and older adults
  • Children had improved reading scores
  • Older adults experience fewer falls and perform better on memory tests
  • The majority of adult participants reported feeling happy, loved, and younger