In 2001, representatives from four Philadelphia-based organizations, The Intergenerational Center at Temple University, PBS/NPR station WHYY, AARP Pennsylvania, and United Way of Southeastern Pennsylvania, attended a conference in San Francisco sponsored by Civic Ventures. The conference was called “Coming of Age” and explored the then new notion that people 50+ represent a tremendous resource for our country.
On their return to Philadelphia, the representatives from these four groups decided to create an initiative, named Coming of Age, which would provide programs to operationalize what they learned.
Since its launch in 2002, Coming of Age has helped people 50+ explore their future; connect and contribute through opportunities both paid and unpaid, as well as provided training to nonprofits about how to build their capacity to capture the energy and expertise of people 50+.
Travis County RSVP recognized the value in the Coming of Age model and strategically re-invented itself as “Coming of Age Austin Metro.” The change was implemented in response to Baby Boomers’ vision and approach toward living a fulfilling, rewarding, and engaged life beyond full-time employment.
The Coming of Age national initiative is a collaboration of organizations across the country dedicated to building a community of adults age 50+ who live with passion and purpose. It is now headquartered in New York City. Together, we work diligently to advance the positive aging movement and fight ageism’s impact on everyone.
