“What I enjoy the most is the surprise and discovery that happens almost every time we meet. Who knew we’d learn so much from each other?” Denise M. (Older Adult Volunteer)
Welcome to GENuine Connections, a virtual volunteer program for teens and adults 65+! Participate in weekly, small-group workshops over Zoom to talk and participate in activities like creative writing, chess, art, current events and so much more. Register today and discover the rewards of intergenerational friendship!
New workshops begin every few weeks and require a commitment of 3-6 weeks! SEE PROGRAM SCHEDULE HERE
Returning volunteer? CLICK HERE to see upcoming workshops and to register.
Questions? Fill out this form and we'll be in touch!
Our lives revolve around connections. Hear from five pairs of senior and teen friends in this video!
Who is this for?
High school students
Adults 65+
What does it cost?
GENuine Connections is free. All participants are volunteering their time (and teens even earn volunteer hours).
How does registration work?
New participants, both adults (65+) and teens, must attend a virtual Orientation Session, complete paperwork, and then register for the workshop(s) that best fit their interests and schedule. (A background check is conducted for the adults.) Returning participants can register directly for workshops.
What happens at an Orientation Session?
The orientation is a chance to experience what GENuine Connections is like. We get to know you, tell you more about the program, and make space for you to ask any questions you may have. This is a way to ensure it is the right program for you!
What is a GENuine Connections workshop?
GENuine Connections offers weekly sessions conducted through Zoom on everything from creative writing, discussion groups and so much more. (Scroll down to see this semester’s options.)
What happens in the workshops?
You’ll connect via Zoom and spend time each week with the same small group of approximately 24 participants — a mix of adults (65+) and teens, plus a trained facilitator — as well as smaller breakout rooms. (Our Tech Coaches can teach you — via phone or FaceTime — how to connect to the Zoom platform.)
How long are the workshops?
Workshops range from 60-120 minutes and last for 6-9 weekly sessions. Each session will build upon the previous one, so plan to be there for all of them.
Where can I see the full schedule?
Find out about upcoming workshops, dates and times here.
First time? New participants must register for a volunteer Orientation Session first.
For community partnership inquiries click here.
Have more questions? Check out our FAQ PAGE if you have questions about the workshops, applying, registering or anything else.
For more information, email us at genuineconnections@dorotusa.org.
