My conjecture for the focus section is based on the ideas of purposeful existence, sparking intergenerational connections, and passing down traditional skills and knowledge- all ideas that seemed particularly salient in the articles I read. A weekly program facilitated by a community organization such as the YMCA, my concept brings together older adults and children for classes in various traditional crafting techniques. Each week a different older adult would lead the children and other adults in a skill or technique they know from their own childhood as a way of sharing their personal culture. This would be an opportunity for children to learn more about the world around them and the history of various people, places, and skills through making. The older adults would also be able to learn new things and create their own craft while helping the child or children they are partnered up with complete the activity. The program would help children develop hard skills specific to the activity and soft skills like communication, teamwork, open-mindedness, and creativity. Meanwhile the older adults could engage in social connection and gain a greater understanding of the children and younger adults in their community. Examples of weekly activities include processes such as weaving, calligraphy, sewing/embroidery, dyeing, paper cutting, beadwork, cooking, and traditional methods of planting and harvesting.
