Creativity and Art Programs Connecting Generations in Scarborough

Technology is intended to bring people together, but it can also cause a divide and a disconnect, especially between age demographics, as the younger generation tend to spend a lot of time staring at screens in today’s digital world.

Generations Create, a unique multi-generational creative program developed by The Salvation Army Agincourt Community Church, aims to lessen this disconnect by getting kids off their screens and bringing together those over the age of 55 and young people under 15 where arts and crafts replaces smartphones and social media.

The Generations Create program takes place at The Salvation Army Agincourt Community Church in Scarborough every Sunday from 1-3 p.m. and is funded with a $46,000 Innovation Grant from The Salvation Army, Canada and Bermuda Territory.

The free program officially kicked off in January and is open to both congregation members and the wider Agincourt community. Snacks and refreshments are included.

“The entire purpose of this program is to bring individuals and families together in a safe environment where they can let their creativity shine in a collaborative way while building lasting relationships,” says Lieut. Scott Allen of Agincourt Community Church.

“Generations Create provides an opportunity for older and younger generations to come together and work on projects whether it’s arts and crafts, cooking or even photography.”

Registration is limited to 50 people to ensure social distancing rules can be met in the church’s gymnasium, and participants are being asked to pre-register by calling 416-497-7520 extension 260 or emailing agincourtcorps@bellnet.ca.

New ideas for Generations Create are being explored and nothing is out of the question if an expert in a certain area can volunteer their time to lead the program.

Lieut. Allen said the idea for Generations Create came from a similar program that ran at an arts organization in Toronto. That concept then was added with a devotional component to fit with the core values of The Salvation Army.

Generations Create is not only a multi-generational program, but also multi-cultural collaboration. The Agincourt community is diverse, and this type of initiative provides inclusive opportunities for everyone.

“We’re here to build community and bring individuals and families together,” says Lieut. Allen. “We are very excited about the possibilities, opportunities and outcomes from Generations Create.”