The local non-profit generations union unites young people with older people

By Bélène Quellet

In a world that often feels divided along generational lines, Generation Union is a nonprofit organization that unites young people with older people, creating lasting bonds and having a profound impact on both groups. With a mission to improve the mental well-being of older adults while fostering an inclusive community, Generation Union has become a powerful force for change. By encouraging volunteering and organizing social events, they bring camaraderie, friendship and a sense of belonging to older people who often feel isolated.

Co-founded by three high school students, Areen, Emily and Rachel, Generation Union was born from a small idea between friends wanting to volunteer together. What started as a simple initiative has now transformed into a non-profit organization operating for three years, with the participation of more than 250 student volunteers, aged 14 to 18 years old. The organization has also grown globally, with more than 30 chapters established from Singapore to New York. Areen Hashemi said their work reminds her of the story of Loren Eiseley’s The Star Thrower, where a small individual effort can make a big difference in someone’s life. As the boy in the story throws a starfish into the ocean and says, “That made a difference to that one,” the co-founders of Generation Union see the ripple effects of their work on the lives that ‘they touch.

Areen Hasehim, now 17 and a student at Herndon High School, was inspired by her lifelong bond with her grandmother. Her passion for mental health advocacy and social entrepreneurship began with independent volunteering at a local nursing home, which later grew into a larger vision for Generation Union. “Through conversations with care managers and nurses, I learned how important social connections are for older adults,” she says.

All three founders share similar stories: their experiences with their grandparents, whether it was age-related health issues, language barriers, or distance, fueled their desire to bridge the generation gap . They recognized the growing problem of isolation among older people and made it their mission to combat this loneliness.

As Areen’s grandmother says: “I was happy to hear about what she started doing and that she is helping grandmothers and grandfathers like me who are far from home. family “.

Challenges and triumphs

Working with older people is not without its challenges. The co-founders and team of volunteers have had to deal with illnesses such as Alzheimer’s, hearing loss and other health issues. However, Generation Union puts the needs of seniors first and foremost, working closely with five Northern Virginia nursing homes and senior living communities to host activities tailored to their interests.

One of the many touching stories from their work comes from a volunteer fluent in American Sign Language who befriended Helen. Helen has hearing difficulties and often feels left out during activities. But during Bingo night, Kirsten, the volunteer, started signing letters and numbers so Helen could participate. Helen and Kirsten’s bond grew, showing how one small gesture of inclusion can completely change someone’s experience.

What sets Generation Union apart is the extraordinary role reversal when it comes to bridging the generation gap. Typically, it is the older generations who reach out to young people, offering them advice or support. But in this case, it is remarkable to see these young women taking the initiative to care for the elderly, many of whom are far from their families. Their empathy and sense of responsibility reflect a deep commitment to the community, making their efforts not only rare but also deeply impactful.

Generation Union has also seen moments where three generations come together, such as when volunteers are accompanied by their mothers. This deepens the impact of the program, as connections are made not only between young people and older people, but also between multiple generations.

Areen’s grandmother said her granddaughter often earns savab, an Arabic term meaning reward in the afterlife, for her good deeds. However, the impact of Generation Union’s work is felt here and now, in the smiles and friendships made.

For more information about Generation Union, a Presidential Volunteer Service Award-certified nonprofit, and how to get involved, visit their website at Generation-Union.org.