Phoenix is an urban area with a population of about 30,000 people. Although a large community, there is a strong sense of cohesiveness among residents. Many residents that live in this area support and look out for each other. The golden gate community is a predominantly Hispanic community, many of whom are new immigrants. The familial connections and relationships in our community are very strong and closely networked, creating a valuable asset and resource for our residents. Some of our community’s key challenges include the current political climate regarding immigration as well as a range of issues related to safety and well being.
Our Communities for all Ages team chose to integrate Communities for All Ages key strategies into the work that we were already involved in, especially within our local community center. We have focused on incorporating strategies that engage community residents of different ages around issues of neighborhood safety, health and wellness, caregiver support, and lifelong learning. We have also trained leaders of different generations who have in turn been developing a range of opportunities and supports for residents of all ages, and raising awareness on the local, city and statewide level about the value of an intergenerational approach to community building.