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Bill

HD 382

An Act relative to intergenerational community engagement

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Colleen Garry and 2 co-sponsors

Massachusetts establishes statewide intergenerational community engagement programs connecting youth and seniors through structured interactions to reduce social isolation and build community cohesion.

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Bill Summary · HD 382

Legislative bill overview

HD 382 establishes a statewide intergenerational community engagement program designed to facilitate meaningful interactions and collaborative activities between youth and older adults. The bill creates funding mechanisms and organizational frameworks to support local initiatives that bring different age groups together for community service, mentoring, and social connection.

Why is this important

Demographic trends show increasing age segregation in communities, with limited structured opportunities for youth and seniors to interact. Research indicates intergenerational programs improve outcomes for both populations—reducing isolation among older adults while providing youth with mentorship and civic engagement. This legislation directly addresses social fragmentation that can contribute to loneliness and reduced community cohesion.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding source and sustainability: The bill requires state funding allocation, raising questions about budget priorities and whether resources should go to this versus other social programs
  • Program design authority: Ambiguity about whether state mandates program specifics or allows municipalities flexibility could create implementation inconsistencies or compliance challenges
  • Measurable outcomes: The bill may lack clear metrics to evaluate success, making it difficult to assess whether taxpayer investment produces demonstrable community benefits

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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