The Intergenerational Project 2025
- We Amplify Voices
- Jun 20
- 3 min read
It turns out the gap between generations isn’t so wide—especially when we take the time to truly listen.
We’re proud to share this 15-minute mini-documentary capturing how Avondale Elementary students and local veterans connected through storytelling, poetry, and art.
Special thanks to The United Way of Central Ohio for making this project possible through their generous support.
Now in its second year, the Intergenerational Project shifted focus to poetry, guided weekly by teaching artist and poet Cynthia Amoah, whose expertise shaped the students' creative process. With support from WAV facilitator Coach Prophet, students built confidence in sharing and listening.
To prepare for their interviews, students learned how to ask veterans thoughtful questions with help from Mason Farr of the National Veterans Memorial and Museum, and explored the symbolism of the Franklinton Flag with Trent Smith from the Franklinton Board of Trade.
During a special luncheon at Carrie’s Café, students had the chance to sit side-by-side with the veterans they had spent weeks preparing to meet.
Students and veterans shared lunch and conversation, connecting in a way that felt natural. After the meal, a panel of veterans answered student questions, offering stories filled with wisdom, humor, and heart.
The students also took turns spinning a “Random Acts of Kindness” wheel, but many didn’t need the prompt.
“When all the kids ran up to get their food, one of my girls noticed the senior at her table didn’t get up, and she stopped and said, ‘Can I get you anything?’” shared Mrs. Flowers.“ For me that moment was everything.That’s what it’s all about, bringing us all together.”
These small gestures reflected the heart of the project: showing up, listening, and caring for one another.
The project wrapped with a community celebration honoring the connections built along the way.
Held at Avondale Elementary, students, veterans, families, Principal Knight, teachers Mrs. Flowers and Mr. Nash, and community members came together to celebrate the work and relationships formed throughout the project. Students performed their original poems, the group watched the mini-documentary together, and reflected on the stories they had shared.
To close the event, veterans and students traded handmade art pieces. It was a simple, powerful exchange that captured the mutual care and creativity at the heart of the experience.
What Stays With Us
With four generations coming together through this project, we were reminded that it takes all of us to build a vibrant, connected community.
"In our world right now, there's a lack of kindness and a lack of empathy. We pass by so many people every day who just might need a 'hello' or 'good morning'. And we don't need to know them-but so many of our older generations are being forgotten or not cared for, and there's just not enough kindness. There's so much kindness in our classroom, and to continue to promote that, and to to talk about that, and continue to reinforce how much joy it brings to people to acknowledge them and to to see them." -Mr. Nash, Participating Teacher
Whether it’s a neighbor, a grandparent, or someone in your community, we hope this project inspires you to reach out, ask questions, and truly listen.
If you missed it, you can explore the beginnings of this work in last year’s Intergenerational Project.
A special thanks to Avondale Elementary for warmly welcoming this project into their school, and to LifeCare Alliance for hosting a powerful luncheon experience. We're grateful to the veterans who shared their stories, and to the National Veterans Memorial and Museum and Franklinton Board of Trade for preparing students with care. Special thanks to Cynthia Amoah, Coach Prophet, and The United Way of Central Ohio for making this project possible.
We challenge you to reach out to someone from a different generation this week. Ask how they’re doing, or invite them to share a story from their life, and really listen. You might be surprised by what can come from a simple conversation.
