Building Community Across Generations
Connect with older adults in your community through mutually meaningful volunteer experiences, scaffolded by ongoing mentorship and career exploration opportunities.
Apply by August 4, 2026Key Program Components
Kickoff Orientation
Vermont Youth Leaders in Aging begins with an orientation retreat in September to help students feel prepared and confident going into their volunteer groups. This is a chance to meet fellow participants, staff, and mentors, learn what to expect in the year ahead, and start exploring why intergenerational connection matters.
Multigenerational Volunteer Groups
Gather twice per month with a small group of students and older adults at a nearby senior center or senior living community. As part of a consistent volunteer team led by trained UVM students, we'll build community through shared activities such as collaborative art, music, games, and storytelling, shaped by your interests and strengths.
Peer Reflection and Career Exploration
Reflect on your volunteer experiences at regular cohort meetings, while deepening your connections with other students. We will also be joined by guest speakers including Center on Aging Faculty Advisory Board members and professionals working across diverse fields, including social work, medicine, nursing, speech-language pathology, memory support, physical and occupational therapy, policy, public health, and age-friendly design and technology. Each session will offer students the chance to ask questions and learn about the range of roles that support older Vermonters.
End-of-Year Celebration & Reflection
Share your experience with family, friends, and community members! Participants of all ages will gather in May for a culminating celebration, where we will present certificates acknowledging your leadership and contributions.
VYLA by the Numbers
- 45 High school students in the inaugural VYLA cohort.
- 13 Graduate and undergraduate student facilitators.
- 37 Intergenerational discussion and activity groups held so far.
VYLA in the News
- Vermont Public – UVM program connects teens with older adults in hopes of boosting the elder care workforce
- ABC 22/FOX 44 – High school students and older Vermonters find connection
- McKnights Senior Living – University’s intergenerational program aims to expose students to senior living careers
- Seven Days – New UVM Program Fosters Connections Between Seniors and Students
Thank You
This program is made possible with generous support from The Eisner Foundation.
