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Political Playback: California Capitol News You Might Have Missed    

September 29, 2025

of the California Intergenerational Mentoring Initiative The California Commission on Aging (CCoA) and Eldera have launched a statewide initiative recruiting Californians aged 60 and older to serve as virtual mentors for children ages 6-17. The program matches older adults with young people for weekly 30-60 minute conversations designed to build resilience, reduce loneliness, and strengthen communities. Participants undergo training and background checks before being matched based on interests, language, and availability, with safety ensured through Eldera's oversight and "AI Chaperone" tool.

Who is affected

  • Californians age 60 and older who can serve as mentors
  • Children ages 6 to 17 who receive mentoring
  • Parents seeking mentors for their children
  • Communities that benefit from strengthened intergenerational connections
  • Young people experiencing loneliness or needing additional support

What action is being taken

  • CCoA and Eldera are actively recruiting older adults to serve as weekly mentors
  • Eldera is overseeing recruitment, vetting, matching, and safety procedures for participants
  • CCoA is mobilizing local networks to support the initiative
  • The program is facilitating weekly video conversations between mentors and mentees
  • Eldera is implementing their "AI Chaperone" technology to help keep interactions safe and meaningful

Why it matters

  • The initiative puts California's Master Plan for Aging into practical action by creating opportunities for generations to thrive together
  • The program addresses loneliness and builds resilience among both older adults and young people
  • It utilizes the experience and wisdom of older adults, described as "California's most underused natural resource"
  • The initiative provides children with consistent human connection and guidance in an increasingly digital world
  • The program offers boundaries, perspective, and emotional support that technology alone cannot provide

What's next

  • Adults interested in becoming mentors and parents seeking mentors for their children can sign up at Eldera.ai

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint