This program is based on research that LGBTQ+ youth are at a higher risk of depression and other mental health issues and that LGBTQ+ older adults endure unique vulnerabilities in aging, often lacking an intergenerational support structure. The opportunity was to create connections between these groups to share their perspectives and experiences through creative expression, fostering mutual support and respect. The program launched virtually in 2021 and expanded to in person programs in 2022 through a grant partnership.

The key areas of innovation are on bringing intergenerational programming and a dedicated LGBTQ+ affinity space to a library setting. Elders use their lived experience to give a grounding and healing perspective to the youth, who in turn give elders an understanding of current struggles along with hope for the future. The program emphasizes the ability of older adults to learn advanced technology tools, a space where older adults often are sidelined, and relies on strong community partnerships to facilitate the program.

In 2022, four youth and four older adults participated in the program, which was intentionally kept small due to trauma-informed storytelling standards and to foster participant relationships. Facilitators led participants through the process of identifying their own story, and then they worked together to put stories into digital form. All participants expressed positive feelings about the experience and after the program, older adults expressed that they felt more seen and understood by their community.