We are honored to announce that Tellegacy, in collaboration with the Lunch Companion Program through Sonoma County’s Council on Aging, has been recognized as a Program of Merit by Generations United—a national authority in advancing intergenerational collaboration. This award celebrates Tellegacy’s unwavering commitment to building bridges between generations through purposeful and transformative programming.
🕊️ Because We’re Stronger Together
This prestigious distinction acknowledges Tellegacy for striving to meet high standards of quality and sustainability in intergenerational programming, aligning with Generations United’s mission to promote a world where all generations are valued and supported. Signed by Executive Director Ilwa Lutt, the award was presented in February 2025, symbolizing a milestone in Tellegacy’s journey to combat loneliness and social isolation in older adults.
What Is Tellegacy?
Tellegacy was born from a simple, yet urgent, truth: Loneliness is a public health crisis. Dr. Jeremy Holloway founded the program at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic to combat rising isolation in older adults. With a structured, evidence-based curriculum centered on mindfulness, reminiscence therapy, growth mindset, and goal setting, university students—known as Legacy Builders—are paired with older adults to engage in weekly, heart-centered conversations via phone or video.
At the end of the 6–8 week journey, older adults receive a personalized legacy book, reinforcing that their story matters—and their life has purpose.
“Tellegacy is like a gentle rain after a severe drought… Our residents feel uplifted after sharing their lives with a compassionate young person. It’s healing the trauma of isolation—one person at a time.”
– Claire Gaillard, Active Living Program Director, Merrill Gardens
Why This Recognition Matters Today
The Program of Merit award is not just a trophy. It is validation that intergenerational programming is not a “nice to have” but a life-saving public health solution. Tellegacy’s impact goes far beyond friendly conversations:
- Reduces loneliness and geriatric depression
- Improves communication between older adults and caregivers
- Fosters mindfulness and purpose for both generations
- Prepares future healthcare providers through real-life experience
- Uplifts caregivers and reinvigorates facility culture
With hundreds university students and older adults served across 40+ communities nationwide, Tellegacy continues to expand with authenticity, care, and measurable results.
A Legacy That Lives On
Tellegacy is more than a program—it’s a movement. By restoring the value of storytelling, connection, and cross-generational wisdom, we are building resilient, compassionate communities that elevate the human experience.
We proudly dedicate this Program of Merit award to every older adult who shared their story, every student who listened with intention, and every partner who believed in the vision.
✨ Our mission is clear: Keep older adults connected. Always.
To learn more or partner with us, visit: Tellegacy.com
Media inquiries: info@tellegacy.com
