Loneliness has been identified as the number one health problem among older adults. They feel invisible and pushed to the margins of our culture. Loneliness is a significant program for young adults. In day-to-day life, there are few opportunities to engage in a meaningful way with someone of a different generation. This program sought to alleviate the loneliness of both groups – and foster community between different generations – through the catalyst of photographs.

This program was a partnership between the University of Denver and the Denver Public Library. The photography professor and his students were engaged participants with a vested interest in making the program successful. The library provided the space, the time of one librarian and materials. The older participants were library patrons. The key element of this program was using treasured photographs as a catalyst to build connections between strangers.

The program fostered community and gave people a deeper understanding of themselves and others. It brought joy and meaning into the lives of everyone who was a part of it. As one participant said: "Before the meeting, I felt lonesome and [felt like] staying in my apartment. After the meeting, I felt happy and glad to meet everyone. The program made me feel so loved."