Designing a Future We’d Want to Grow Old In: Lessons from Intergenerational Volunteering & CSR Programmes

What Kind of Future Do We Want to Grow Old In?
Almost everyone who volunteers with seniors eventually asks this powerful question:
“How would I — or my parents — want to grow old?”

That thought struck me deeply when I began volunteering years ago. With a background in design and wellness programming, I started to notice the gaps in how we support ageing, but also the untapped potential. I wasn’t just thinking about my parents. I was thinking about myself. Because one day, I too will grow old.

This reflection sparked a passion to create age-inclusive experiences, ones that are dignified, joyful, and meaningful. And it starts with a mindset shift.

Rethinking Ageing Through Intergenerational CSR Programmes

You can read about ageing, but the real transformation happens when you sit beside a senior, create something together, or hear their story. These shared moments remind us:

• What does a good quality of life look like in old age?

• Are our current environments designed for holistic senior wellness?

• What kind of community do we want to age in?

Through our work at The Little Changemakers, we see firsthand how intergenerational volunteer programmes can shift mindsets, not just in schools and eldercare settings, but in companies, too.

The Power of Community in Ageing Well

No one ages well in isolation. Wellness for seniors is not just physical, it's also emotional, cognitive, and social. Community is a critical pillar. Whether it’s friends, neighbours, or younger volunteers, meaningful connection helps seniors feel seen and valued.

That’s why our CSR programmes focus on inclusive, intergenerational experiences, where employees and beneficiaries build bonds that go beyond a single volunteering day.

Mutual Growth: What Volunteers Learn from Seniors

Volunteers often come in thinking they’re here to help. But they leave having been changed, laughing, creating, and learning from elders.

We’ve seen this happen with students, professionals, and even seasoned leaders. That spark of connection, through art, storytelling, food, or simply a shared laugh, becomes a moment of wonder and renewal.

Our goal is to turn each session into a transformative CSR experience. One where participants walk away with new perspectives on life, ageing, and what it means to serve with heart.

Why We Created a CSR Management Service

We realised many companies want to give back, but struggle with the “how.” That’s where we come in.

The Little Changemakers CSR Programme is designed to:

• Take care of all planning and logistics

• Facilitate meaningful intergenerational connections

• Align your company’s social impact with real community needs

From wellness activities with seniors to team-building through craft, we design turnkey CSR sessions that are heartfelt, purposeful, and unforgettable.

Ageing is a Design Challenge — Let’s Solve It Together

We’re not just running sessions. We’re designing a future.

By reframing ageing as a shared, creative journey, we can build a society that embraces growing old — not with fear, but with joy and connection.

Because the question isn’t whether we’ll grow old, but how. And together, through thoughtful CSR and intergenerational design, we can answer that.

Learn more about our CSR programmes for companies
Explore our work with seniors & intergenerational art
Reach out to co-create your team’s next meaningful volunteering experience