Together We Grow, an innovative intergenerational programme implemented by the Edmonton Public Library (EPL), brings an early literacy programming to seniors’ retirement residences and long-term care facilities. The programme promotes social connection, reduces feelings of loneliness, and creates meaningful interactions that benefit participants of all ages.
Demand for early literacy programming in Edmonton is high, exceeding capacity in many EPL branches, with all programming timeslots filled. Further, not only is Edmonton’s population aging, but also increasing due to international immigration and inter-provincial migration.
Seniors are a growing demographic in Edmonton and are expected to make up 1/3 of the population by 2040. A creative solution, like intergenerational outreach programming, allows EPL to address the needs of a range of demographics with minimal impact on resources. Retirement residence program directors want to connect their residents meaningfully with the community, and Edmonton newcomer families are often geographically distanced from their own relatives.
Launched in June 2023, the EPL’s Together We Grow programme fosters intergenerational connection and early literacy development through interactive playgroups at retirement residences. Children aged 0-3, their caregivers, and older adults come together for engaging sessions of songs, rhymes, stories, and play.
Developed in partnership with Rutherford Heights Retirement Residence, the program adapted EPL’s extensive in-person early literacy experience, enhancing inclusivity by welcoming older adults with memory care or mobility challenges and creating opportunities for prosocial interaction.
Following successful pilot programme, Together We Grow expanded to seven additional locations, furthering its reach in communities throughout Edmonton. As of December 2024, over 80 sessions have been offered, with 2,258 attendees so far.
As the program expanded, the EPL partnered with the Greater Edmonton Foundation which provides housing to 3,800 low-income seniors who are also at increased risk of social isolation. Partnerships between these retirement residences and EPL bridges generations and strengthens community ties, while expanding access to high quality early literacy programming for young children.
Feedback surveys consistently reveal an exceptional 4.9/5 average recommendation rating. The programme demonstrates significant success in achieving its goals of both developing early literacy skills in young children and also creating opportunities for social connections for older adults.
Feedback from the retirement facility staff demonstrates the programme’s positive impact: “Our residents had smiles on their faces the whole time.” The programme was impactful for adults with memory care issues; facility staff reported that many participants would spontaneously recall events from the program days later, demonstrating a lasting positive effect.
Overall, the programme embodies the EPL’s mandate as a community connector by fostering intergenerational relationships and creating a more inclusive and vibrant Edmonton. Its wide reach, attracting families from diverse backgrounds from across Edmonton, underscores its success in addressing a critical community need.
Together We Grow’s unique intergenerational design and partnership with retirement residences address a community need and programming gap within EPL’s Community-Led Service Philosophy and the program continues to run with plans for further expansion.
