Planning for an Intergenerational Future: Planning and Design Collaboration for the Ypsilanti Senior Center's Intergenerational Transition

Abstract

In today’s day and age there is an increasing need to create intergenerational spaces and places by design to address growing rates of social isolation for older adults and children alike. One possible solution is intergenerational planning, a concept defined as planning for public spaces that support people during all stages of life and promotes connection between younger and older generations. Throughout the pandemic and beyond, the Ypsilanti Senior Center has become a place that helps bridge that gap between generations and prevent social isolation through programming that encourages healthy aging — a concept which includes anything from food security to fitness.

Since 1961, the Ypsilanti Senior Center (YSC) has provided programs and services to seniors within the Ypsilanti community and beyond. Located on a 17 acre park owned by the City of Ypsilanti, the Center includes a flexible indoor space for events, a kitchen, art room, garden, and outdoor patio space. YSC has recently acquired grant money for upgrades and the staff has a goal of transitioning the Center to become a catalyst for a more intergenerational community through building renovations and future planning efforts.

This professional project supports this transitional phase for the Center through the project management of a diverse set of stakeholders and activities. In my project, I highlight both the process and findings from: 1. Key outcomes of facilitation between different stakeholders (consultants, YSC staff and Board, 507 students, community partners). 2. Graphic design efforts to support the center in external outreach surrounding the renovation and future grant funding. 3. Planning support for community engagement events such as a future design charrette.