The ILI is a certificate-training program for older adults seeking new lifelong learning experiences, skills, and volunteer opportunities to contribute to innovation and change in their communities.
Photo: Heyman Interages Center at the Jewish Council for the Aging in Rockville, MD
The ILI (Intergenerational Leadership Institute) is a certificate-training program developed by Penn State University in 2015 for older adults (primary target audience is 55+) seeking new lifelong learning experiences, skills, and volunteer opportunities to contribute to innovation and change in their communities. As of 2020, the ILI model was expanded to include staff and administrators of organizations and agencies planning new intergenerational programs as well as interested university students.
Each chapter is anchored in a single organization, however, its success depends on the active participation of several strategic partners. For the State College, PA chapter, ILI program partners include the Penn State Intergenerational Program (rooted in Penn State Extension), the Penn State Center for Healthy Aging, RSVP – Centre County, OLLI – Penn State (University Park), and the PSU College of Agricultural Sciences Office of Multicultural Affairs.
Here are some of the key components in developing and sustaining ILI chapters over time.
First steps for launching an ILI chapter.
The Intergenerational Leadership Institute certificate training program for older adults was first piloted in 2015 with 10 participants from State College, PA and surrounding communities taking part in an 8-module short course on intergenerational programs and practices. Some participants chose to continue through the certification process which includes taking part in a series of monthly “applications seminar” sessions as well as additional training and networking opportunities provided by Penn State and partnering organizations.
This ILI chapter is based in Montgomery County, MD, and it is run by the Heyman Interages Center, based at the Jewish Council for the Aging of Greater Washington. Launched in 2015, as part of the ILI pilot.
The Intergenerational Leadership Institute - Nelson, B.C. (Canada) Chapter was launched on January 12, 2018 with 15 participants.
The "ILI Chapters Network" consists of: ILI chapter coordinators, instructors, facilitators, collaborators, partners, and “Fellows” (i.e., graduates).
5+ chapters are now in the early stages of formation: Information on these and other ILI initiatives is forthcoming. Stay tuned!!
Video testimonials from ILI - State College, PA chapter participants.
Contact Us
- Professor, Intergenerational Programs and Aging
- Email msk15@psu.edu
- Office 814-863-7871
Contact Us
- Professor, Intergenerational Programs and Aging
- Email msk15@psu.edu
- Office 814-863-7871
