Seniors in Czech Republic engage in intergenerational volunteering

In the Czech Republic, senior citizens are increasingly engaging in volunteer work to maintain a sense of purpose and social connection. Through the ‘PŘEČTI’ program organized by Mezi námi, volunteers known as ‘storytelling grandmothers and grandfathers’ visit kindergartens to read to children. This initiative, which has been accredited by the Ministry of the Interior since 2017, operates in cities such as Prague, Brno, Plzeň, and Hradec Králové.

Beyond educational settings, seniors also provide psychosocial support in healthcare environments. At Thomayer University Hospital in Prague, a volunteer program has operated since 2005, allowing seniors to act as companions for patients, offering conversation or accompanying them on walks to improve their hospital experience.

The Mezi námi organization coordinates intergenerational programs across all fourteen Czech regions, collaborating with over 400 schools and senior facilities. To date, more than 18,000 seniors and children have participated in these programs.