COTA Tasmania is delighted to announce that Generations Connect: Tech Together has secured funding through the Tasmanian Community Fund, enabling the program to expand across Tasmania over the next five years. The program was one of 11 successful projects funded by the Tasmanian Community Fund to strengthen learning, leadership and wellbeing across communities throughout the state.
Generations Connect: Tech Together pairs young digital mentors with older Tasmanians living in residential aged care, creating opportunities to build digital confidence, reduce social isolation and foster meaningful connections between generations. COTA Tasmania Chief Executive Officer Brigid Wilkinson said the funding marks an exciting new chapter for the program.
“We are thrilled to have the Fund’s support as we work to strengthen the bonds between generations and build more connected communities across Tasmania,” Ms Wilkinson said.
Since its launch, Generations Connect: Tech Together has demonstrated the value of bringing generations together. Older participants have gained confidence using digital technology to stay connected with family, friends and services, while young mentors have developed communication, leadership and mentoring skills through meaningful relationships with older people.
This milestone would not have been possible without the support of the residential aged care homes, schools, teachers, students and young mentors who have embraced the program. Their enthusiasm and commitment have helped create lasting connections and meaningful learning experiences for everyone involved.
COTA Tasmania also acknowledges the outstanding leadership of Program Manager Mel Knuckey, whose dedication and vision have been instrumental in growing the program and building strong partnerships across Tasmania.
We sincerely thank the Tasmanian Community Fund for recognising the value of intergenerational learning and investing in the future of Generations Connect: Tech Together. We look forward to working with more residential aged care homes, schools and communities as the program expands statewide, creating even more opportunities for older and younger Tasmanians to learn from one another and build lasting connections.