The intergenerational field began in the early 1970s as a social phenomenon in response to several factors that were affecting America's children, youth, and older adults. This paper briefly surveys three aspects of intergenerational programs: history and development, public policy focus, and recent research initiatives. The multi-disciplinary…

Reasons for evaluating intergenerational programs are presented, and unique features and basic components of these evaluations are described. Strategies and methodologies used in the program evaluation process are systematically outlined. Careful and serious evaluation can provide insights into problem areas, successful program elements,…