Background

Gen Pals began as a pilot program, developed in collaboration with a University of New Hampshire research team led by Dr. BoRin Kim to foster intergenerational connection and enhance community belonging in Westborough. In the summer of 2025, eleven intergenerational pairs of older adults (65+) and adolescents (14–17) participated in community-based activities over a six-week period during the summmer of 2025. Participants reported benefits that included reduced social isolation, stronger community belonging, and more positive perceptions of both age groups. Older adults emphasized the program’s role in countering isolation in age-segregated housing, while adolescents valued opportunities to engage with the broader community beyond peers. We are grateful to the University of New Hampshire for supporting the pilot.

We are currently hosting our third cohort, with 14 participants.

Watch this short video to learn more!

Watch these short videos to hear about the program directly from Gen Pals!

“My partner had a lot of stories and experiences that he talked about, which were super interesting because, obviously, he has lived longer than me. He talked about things he did and connected them with my experiences.”
— Gen Pal teen participant

2026 Grant support from Avidia Charitable Foundation.

 
 

Gen Pals publications and exhibits

Poster Presenation: Westborough For Life: Stay. Connect. Thrive., fall 2025

Poster Presentation: GSA 2025 Innovative Horizons in Gerentology