Press Release

LBFE Boston’s Intergenerational CitySites Named National Program of Distinction

By Jean DeMayoDecember 13, 2022

Generations United’s designation serves as the U.S. benchmark for high-quality intergenerational programs


BOSTON, Mass., Dec. 13, 2022 –Following a rigorous independent review process, CitySites, the signature intergenerational program offered by Boston nonprofit LBFE Boston | Little Brothers –Friends of the Elderly, has been named one of 11 Programs of Distinction by Generations United, a national nonprofit, whose mission is to improve the lives of children, youth, and older people through intergenerational collaboration, public policies, and programs for the enduring benefit of all.

Through CitySites’ comprehensive approach to relieving isolation and loneliness, and in partnership with service-learning and community engagement programs at several Boston colleges and universities, LBFE Boston offers weekly social activities and has connected hundreds of older and younger participants in more than 17 low-income senior housing buildings and senior centers across the city.

“From its inception, LBFE Boston’s intergenerational CitySites program has been committed to high-quality, data-driven, participatory program design,” said Nikki Shults, Executive Director of LBFE Boston. “We’re delighted that Generations United has recognized our asset-based, multilingual, and community-centered approach to intergenerational programs and connections. Being named a Program of Distinction comes with a level of recognition that will help LBFE Boston continue to expand our reach and impact.”

“Achieving this recognition is a major accomplishment. The Intergenerational Program Certification is the only U.S. ‘seal of approval’ for intergenerational programs and the application and review process are rigorous,” said Donna Butts, Executive Director of Generations United.

Intergenerational programs foster connections between generations. By sharing experiences and conversations, a mutually beneficial friendship forms, positively impacting individuals and their community.

About LBFE Boston: Since 1979 LBFE Boston’s nonprofit mission has been to help relieve isolation and loneliness among our older neighbors. By connecting residents of affordable & public housing with local college students, we facilitate lasting intergenerational friendships through weekly social, educational, creative, and technology access & digital literacy programs. For more information, visit www.lbfeboston.org.

About Generations United: Generations United is a nonprofit that strengthens practices and policies to benefit all generations. For more than three decades, Generations United has been the catalyst for policies and practices stimulating cooperation and collaboration among generations, evoking the vibrancy, energy, and sheer productivity that result when people of all ages come together. We believe that we can only be successful in the face of our complex future if generational diversity is regarded as a national asset and fully leveraged.

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