After 20 years, funding limitations and decreased attendance threatened the viability of an annual cookout for older adults put on by the Golden Nuggets senior ministry of Knox Presbyterian Church in Baltimore, Maryland.
“With thanks to God, the ministry applied for and received a grant from POAMN that allowed us to continue,” shared Ruling Elder Adrienne Knight. “We used the opportunity to change the event from senior-focused to intergenerational and invited the entire church community.”
In July 2024 at Turner Station Park, more than 100 people gathered, an increase of 25 to 50 percent over recent years. It was a successful event, complete with delicious food and friendly fellowship.
The day included multiple opportunities for older adults and youth to interact. At the lake, seniors taught youth how to put worms on hooks and coached them in fishing.
Multiple games invited friendly competition. One paired an individual older adult with a youth to compete together. Each team worked to identify items from their respective generations. Another game, styled like the popular TV program Family Feud, pitted senior church members against young adults and teens.
The older adults also enjoyed time for sharing stories of previous generations.
The event was praised by all in attendance and has become a new tradition for our church. “This was the best day! I can’t wait until next year,” said one of the youth participants.
What a wonderful celebration of the gifts and talents of the old and young.
Have an idea for a new program or event focused on older adults? Need funds to boost an existing activity? Apply for a grant from POAMN. Our grants give POAMN members a little financial help (typically $250 to $500) to explore a new opportunity.
This article originally appeared in the 2025 Older Adult Ministry Resource Guide.