By Belen Quellet

In a world that often feels divided along generational lines, Generation Union is a nonprofit that unites youth with the elderly, creating lasting connections and making a profound impact on both groups. With a mission to uplift the mental wellness of older adults while fostering an inclusive community, Generation Union has grown into a powerful force of change. By encouraging volunteerism and hosting social events, they bring companionship, friendship, and a sense of belonging to seniors who often feel isolated.

Co-founded by three high school students, Areen, Emily, and Rachel, Generation Union began as a small idea among friends who wanted to volunteer together. What started as a simple initiative has now blossomed into a nonprofit running for three years, with more than 250 student volunteers, ages 14 to 18, participating. The organization has also expanded globally, with over 30 chapters established from Singapore to New York. Areen Hashemi said their work reminds her of the story of The Star Thrower by Loren Eiseley, where a small, individual effort can make a big difference in someone’s life. As the boy in the story throws a starfish back into the ocean and says, “It made a difference to that one,” Generation Union’s co-founders see the ripple effects of their work in the lives they touch.

Areen Hasehim, now 17 and a student at Herndon High School, was inspired by her lifelong bond with her grandmother. Her passion for mental health advocacy and social entrepreneurship started with independent volunteering at a local retirement home, which then grew into a larger vision for Generation Union. “Through conversations with care managers and nurses, I learned how important social connection is for seniors,” she says.

The three founders share similar stories: their experiences with their grandparents, whether age-related health challenges, language barriers, or distance, fueled their desire to bridge the gap between generations. They recognized the growing issue of isolation among seniors and made it their mission to combat this loneliness.

As Areen’s grandmother put it: “I was happy to hear about what she started doing and that she helps grandmas and grandpas like me who are away from their family”.

Challenges and Triumphs

Working with seniors is not without its challenges. The co-founders and the team of volunteers have had to navigate conditions like Alzheimer’s, hearing loss, and other health concerns. However, Generation Union prioritizes the needs of the seniors above all, working closely with five nursing homes and senior living facilities in Northern Virginia to organize activities tailored to their interests.

One of the many touching stories from their work comes from a volunteer fluent in American Sign Language who befriended Helen. Helen has hearing difficulties and often feels left out during activities. But during Bingo Night, Kirsten, the volunteer, began signing the letters and numbers so Helen could participate. The bond between Helen and Kirsten grew, showing how a small gesture of inclusion can change someone’s experience entirely.

What makes Generation Union stand out is the extraordinary reversal of roles when it comes to bridging generational gaps. Typically, it is the older generation reaching out to engage with youth, offering guidance or support. However, in this case, it is remarkable to see these young women taking the initiative to care for the elderly, many of whom are far from their families. Their empathy and sense of responsibility reflect a deep commitment to the community, making their efforts not only rare but also profoundly impactful.

Generation Union has also seen moments where three generations come together, such as when volunteers are accompanied by their mothers. This deepens the impact of the program, as connections are built not just between youth and seniors, but across multiple generations.

Areen’s grandmother stated her grandaughter often gains savab, an Arabic term meaning reward in the afterlife, for her good deeds. However, the impact of Generation Union’s work is felt here and now, in the smiles and friendships formed.

For more information about Generation Union, a certified Presidential Volunteer Service Award nonprofit, and how you can get involved, visit their website at generation-union.org