We know that developing relationships between age groups is one of the proven ways to reduce ageism. But, it's one thing to know that and quite another to know how to have a conversation with someone who may have different perspectives.

Many of you have asked for guidance in how to have conversations and build relationships between people of different ages.

Changing the Narrative and LinkAGES Connects are excited to present this webinar where we will go through techniques for starting conversations and developing connection. We'll provide concrete tips and resources that you can put into practice immediately.

Meet your speakers:

Rachel Cohen

Rachel is the Founder and CEO of Aging Dynamics consulting firm and the Executive Director of LinkAGES Connects intergenerational initiative committed to addressing social isolation, loneliness and ageism through meaningful intergenerational connections. She has a diverse background in community planning and social work, with 30 years’ experience working and consulting with public and private organizations of all sizes, and across sectors. Rachel facilitates collaboration lending her expertise in social services, housing, public health, aging, and food systems with the vision of building communities that are supportive, engaging, and equitable places to grow up and grow older.

Haley Sanner

Haley Sanner is an innovative leader, a trauma-informed facilitator, and an intentional mixed-methods researcher. Haley currently serves as the Healthy Aging Program Manager at Colorado Health Network promoting improved quality of life and social connections for older adults aging with HIV. She is a co-founder of Collective Healing Through Art, a program of LinkAGES Connects, an innovative organization seeking to address social isolation across ages by creating opportunities for meaningful intergenerational connections. Haley has worked in the aging field for over ten years, including with the AARP Foundation, LeadingAge Virginia, Lutheran Family Services and with older adult community groups in Nepal with specializations in social determinants of health, specifically social isolation and emotional wellbeing.

Kris Geerken

A frequent speaker and passionate advocate for age-inclusivity, Kris developed the Age-Friendly Healthcare initiative, including production of the educational video, Antidotes for Ageism & self-directed discussion guide. She also leads the intergenerational conversation campaign, including a PBS series of intergenerational conversations and the conversation toolkit. She is an Adjunct Instructor at Metropolitan State University of Denver teaching on Aging and Society. Kris holds a Master of Health Administration degree and a B.S. in Human Development with a concentration in aging issues.