The “BRIDGE” project, short for Breaching Reservation and Improving Dialogue through Generational Exchange, was a pioneering Erasmus+ initiative aimed at addressing a growing challenge in youth work: bridging the generational gap between younger and more experienced professionals. Running from March 2021 to August 2023, this project brought together organizations from five European countries with a common goal—to foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing between junior and senior youth workers. With an EU grant of €239,684.21, the project has left a lasting legacy through its resources, including a framework concept, handbook, and policy brief.
Background: Bridging the Generational Divide in Youth Work
In many professional fields, including youth work, teams often struggle with generational gaps. Younger professionals may excel in digital media and new technologies, while more seasoned staff offer a wealth of experience and a broader, holistic perspective. Yet, this dynamic can lead to misunderstandings, lack of recognition, and even conflicts within teams. As the baby boomer generation approaches retirement, organizations also face potential knowledge and competence gaps. The BRIDGE project was designed to address these issues by creating a structured platform for intergenerational dialogue, enabling youth workers to learn from each other and collaborate effectively.
Project Objectives
The BRIDGE project had two primary objectives:
- Content-Related Goals:
- Increase awareness about the importance of generational collaboration.
- Highlight and visualize the unique strengths of both juniors and seniors.
- Develop structured methods for knowledge transfer and management to retain expertise within organizations.
- Outreach Goals:
- Share knowledge and best practices with other organizations.
- Develop a framework, handbook, and policy brief to serve as resources for organizations looking to implement similar initiatives.
Key Activities and Phases
The project was divided into three main phases:
- Building Bridges (Intellectual Output 1): The project began with national working groups within each participating organization. Through training courses and an online questionnaire, partners collected insights on intergenerational challenges. Using this data, they developed a framework concept outlining best practices for raising awareness and identifying the strengths of each generation.
- Crossing Bridges (Intellectual Output 2): This phase focused on creating methods for effective knowledge transfer and management. Each national working group proposed strategies, which were then refined and consolidated during a dedicated training course. These efforts culminated in the publication of a comprehensive handbook, documenting actionable steps for embedding knowledge-sharing practices in youth organizations.
- Bridging the Gap (Intellectual Output 3): Finally, the project developed a policy brief based on discussions and recommendations generated within the working groups. This document provides concrete guidance for youth professionals, organizations, and policymakers on enhancing cooperation and dialogue between generations.
Results and Resources
The BRIDGE project produced three main resources that are freely accessible for organizations and individuals interested in promoting intergenerational collaboration:
- Framework Concept: A detailed guide for raising awareness on the value of generational exchange and visualizing each generation’s strengths. This document includes survey results highlighting generational strengths and recommends methods for effective knowledge sharing.
- Handbook on Knowledge Transfer: This resource systematically describes methods for transferring knowledge between juniors and seniors, ensuring that valuable expertise remains within organizations even after senior staff retire or move on.
- Policy Brief: Aimed at professionals, organizations, and policymakers, this document offers actionable recommendations for improving collaboration and communication between generations, ultimately contributing to more resilient and effective youth work organizations.
Impact and Future Potential
By fostering a structured approach to intergenerational dialogue, the BRIDGE project has made significant strides toward improving the quality of youth work across Europe. The project’s resources empower organizations to retain knowledge and skills across generations, creating sustainable, knowledge-rich environments. With its emphasis on both practical methods and policy recommendations, BRIDGE offers a roadmap for other organizations seeking to leverage the strengths of each generation.
For more information, resources, and to explore ways to implement these strategies within your organization, visit the BRIDGE project website.
Keywords: Intergenerational Learning, Youth Work, Knowledge Transfer, Erasmus+ Projects, Youth Social Work
The BRIDGE project demonstrates how targeted strategies can bridge generational divides, ultimately creating stronger, more collaborative, and resilient youth organizations. Through its resources and recommendations, this project offers a scalable model for organizations across sectors seeking to harness the unique strengths of both junior and senior professionals.
