Frequently Asked Questions

Are there initiatives like Coming of Age in other parts of the United States or outside the country?

Coming of Age is part of a growing movement that recognizes the unique talents of people 50+ and the wealth of skills, knowledge, and experience they have to offer. Presently, there are five communities in the United States that have launched Coming of Age initiatives: Philadelphia, Delaware, Kansas City, MO, Central Pennsylvania, and San Francisco, and several others are in formation. The national office also has presented programming in 25 other communities in the United States and Canada.  

What research was conducted that led to creating the initiative?

In addition to reviewing such research as the Harvard School of Public Health-MetLife Foundation "Reinventing Aging," Coming of Age founding partner, Temple University's Intergenerational Center conducted focus group research in 2004 that led to the development of a report entitled Understanding how Philadelphians age 50+ View Volunteerism. 

Coming of Age is committed to engaging people 50+ in diverse communities in compelling roles and strengthening organizations in those communities. The initiative has partnerships with African-American, Latino, and Southeast Asian organizations on community-building projects. Information about these projects is available to support replication in other communities without charge. For more details, click here.

Does Coming of Age work with "for-profit" companies and organizations?

Yes. Our criteria for partnering is that an organization focuses on enriching and improving communities or helps people 50+ explore their futures so that they can more effectively connect and contribute to their communities. The Explore Your Future training program is specifically designed for these types of companies.