Bridges Together at the State House! L-R: Laura Fonte (Andrea’s mom), BT Associate Director Debbie Howell, Rep. Carmine Gentile, Andrea Fonte Weaver, Kevin Weaver, BT Board Chairman Chris Hammer; Front Row: Dr. Edgar Klugman, BT Development Director Nancy Drourr
In case you haven’t heard, it’s Intergenerational Awareness Month (IGAM) – and now it’s official! On September 1, Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker signed the following proclamation, declaring September as IGAM. (Thank you to State Representative Carmine Gentile who served as our liaison to the State House.)
Whereas The number of Americans sixty-five years old will more than double by the year 2030, supported by an increase in life expectancy; and
Whereas 10,000 Americans are turning sixty-five years of age every day and can expect to live approximately another 20 years; and
Whereas When today’s children are adults, they will be expected to support, advocate for and help care for these seniors, both personally and professionally; and
Whereas The intergenerational challenges facing individuals, families, businesses, educational, societal and religious institutions, public policy makers and government agencies have become intricate due to the dramatic shift in life expectancy and a host of societal changes; and
Whereas It is important for people in Massachusetts to reach out and engage with other generations at work, school, in their families, place of worship and greater communities; and
Whereas When older adults and youth are involved in intergenerational programs, they experience a myriad of life-changing benefits; and
Whereas The various generations weave together an eclectic intergenerational tapestry of profound beauty and opportunities; and
Whereas Through education, awareness, communication and connections, new intergenerational relationships can become solidified and older adults and young people can begin working towards a more positive future,
Now, Therefore, I, Charles D. Baker, Governor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, do hereby proclaim the month of September 2016 to be,
INTERGENERATIONAL AWARENESS MONTH
And urge all the citizens of the Commonwealth to take cognizance of this event and participate fittingly in its observance.
