Connecting and sharing from intergenerational clubs

Formed from the spirit of mutual love in the community, intergenerational self-help clubs have become a practical and humane social model, contributing to caring for the spiritual and material life of the elderly. By the end of November 2024, Lam Dong province had 153 clubs in operation, attracting 7,067 members, including 4,300 women and more than 3,500 people under 60 years old.

Culture and arts are among the outstanding activities of the Intergenerational Club.

The clubs were established under two decisions of the Prime Minister : 34 clubs under Decision 1533 and 119 clubs under Decision 1336/QD-TTg. The mobilization budget for activities reached over 4.2 billion VND, mostly from community contributions. Leading localities include Di Linh (29 clubs), Lam Ha (23), Da Teh (24), Bao Lam (14), Bao Loc, Duc Trong, Don Duong (11 clubs each)...

This model is deployed according to Plan 9212/KH-UBND dated November 12, 2020 of Lam Dong Provincial People's Committee, to implement Decision No. 1336 of the Prime Minister. This is a voluntary social organization, born from the community, for the community, aiming to promote the role of the elderly, build a happy living environment - live healthy - live usefully. The highlight in the activities of intergenerational clubs is the diversity, closeness and suitability for the elderly: from arts, sports , health care, to visiting when sick, guiding home care for lonely elderly people. In addition, many clubs also support poor members to borrow capital, creating conditions for developing production and small businesses. Through activities, the clubs become places to propagate the policies of the Party and the laws of the State, while connecting generations, creating a spread in the community.

Despite many positive results, the process of building and expanding the intergenerational club model still faces many challenges. In some places, the Elderly Association has not been proactive in advising the government; the coordination between the Fatherland Front and other organizations is still limited. Propaganda and mobilization work is still weak. Some clubs are not operating effectively and lack financial resources due to their dependence on members' contributions. In remote areas, where there are many ethnic minorities, establishing and maintaining clubs is even more difficult. A segment of poor elderly people have not had access to appropriate loan sources for economic development.

From the implementation, many lessons have been drawn, that is, the Association must be the core, proactively coordinate with sectors and organizations, and effectively advise the government. The Club's Board of Directors, especially the chairman, needs to have enthusiasm, health, social experience and prestige in the community. The content of activities is diverse and rich, associated with regional culture such as Quan Ho folk songs, Vi Dam, Gong Chinh... to preserve identity and attract members. Strengthen socialization, encourage the participation of philanthropists and members with economic conditions to improve operational efficiency. Strengthen inspection, supervision, timely commendation and reward of groups and individuals with positive contributions.

Mr. Dam Xuan Deu - Head of the Representative Board of the Lam Dong Provincial Elderly Association, said: The intergenerational self-help club model is gradually affirming its effectiveness and strong influence. This is not only a place for the elderly to live, but also a symbol of solidarity and sharing between generations, contributing to building a civilized, affectionate and benevolent society. To maintain the good operation of the club, it requires the attention of Party committees and authorities at all levels, the coordination of political and social organizations; at the same time, it is necessary to attach responsibility to the members of the Executive Board. In addition, the Executive Board of the club must build a fund for the elderly as well as socialize the activities of the club and increase community participation in care work, promoting the role of the elderly.

Source: https://baolamdong.vn/van-hoa-nghe-thuat/202505/gan-ket-se-chia-tu-cac-cau-lac-bo-lien-the-he-e8e4188/