High school students help older people come to grips with technology in the award-winning Cross+Gen program. Photo: CatholicCare.
A Wollongong program which brings together older people and high school students to break down technology barriers has won a national award.
The Catholic Diocese of Wollongong’s Cross+Gen program won the Australian Institute for Intergenerational Practice’s prestigious Award for Innovation and Contribution for 2025.
The program won ahead of four other finalists from South Australia and Victoria. The institute (AIIP) aims to connect communities through the development, implementation and evaluation of intergenerational programs.
A collaborative effort between CatholicCare, Catholic Education, and local Catholic parishes, Cross+Gen brings together older people and high school students to address digital exclusion among seniors. It also offers students an opportunity for outreach and community engagement.
CatholicCare CEO Michael Austin said the strong belief behind Cross+Gen was that every generation had something valuable to share.
“This program not only enhances digital literacy among older adults but also fosters deep, human connections that combat social isolation for both young and old,” he said.
“We are incredibly proud of the impact Cross+Gen is having in our communities.
“This award reinforces the importance of intergenerational initiatives and encourages us to continue expanding our reach.”
Since its pilot in 2021, Cross+Gen has expanded from one school and three parishes to four schools and 15 parishes across the Illawarra, Macarthur and Shoalhaven regions.
Schools taking part include Corpus Christi Catholic High School at Oak Flats, Holy Spirit College Bellambi, St Benedict’s Catholic College at Oran Park, and Nowra’s St John The Evangelist Catholic High School.
The hands-on sessions are hosted in schools, with hospitality students gaining experience by providing refreshments.
The program has shown significant improvements in seniors’ digital confidence, increased social interaction and the development of empathy and leadership skills among students.
Bishop of Wollongong Brian Mascord said the diocese was deeply honoured to receive the award.
“Cross+Gen is a powerful testament to how intergenerational programs can enrich lives and strengthen relationships,” he said.
“It highlights the vital role of our pastoral works in serving and uplifting people across all stages of life.”
The award was presented at the AIIP annual conference held in Sydney on 21 and 22 February.
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