The Wisdom of Age: A Staff Guide is a handbook published by MENTOR. This guide provides tips to recruit and most effectively work with the growing number of older Americans who could be volunteer mentors.

1. The Wisdom of Age A Guide for Staff

5. Understanding Generations: The Silent Generation (1927-1945) Conformity Strict segregation Risk Adverse Post-war suburban migration Patience McCarthy Era Detail-oriented Patience Big Bands Thorough Patriotic Volunteering for war effort Provide hours of regular hours of volunteer service Delayed reward Women in in the Workforce You will be helping to instill traditional family values Loyal Respect for authority WWI Tradition is important in our organization Challenged by ambiguity and change Stable Hard work The Depression Core Messages Challenges Assets Core Values Defining Events

6. Understanding Generations: Leading Edge Boomers (1946-1955) Personal gratification “ sex, drugs, and rock ‘n roll” Collaborative problem-solvers Concerns for the environment The VW Beatle and The Beatles Open-minded Work is paramount Man on the Moon “ Push the envelope” Assassinations of JFK, MLK, RFK, Malcom X Let’s sit down and talk this through… Don’t respond well to criticism Hard workers Empowerment Vietnam War You can really make a difference Not as frugal as their parents Team players Team orientation Civil Rights Movement Your experience is valued Put process ahead of results Service-oriented Optimism Mickey Mouse Club Core Messages Challenges Assets Core Values Defining Events

7. Understanding Generations: Trailing Edge Boomers (1956-1964) Credit Cards Technology and daily life Advocates for environment Changes in economy/gas prices Health and wellness Iran-Contra Devoted parents, willing to promote youth-serving programs Less political involvement Gerald Ford and Jimmy Carter Increasingly tech savvy “ Nothing is guaranteed” Watergate Your expertise and dedication can make a difference Pessimistic regarding ability to effect change Hardworking Pessimism End of Vietnam War Core Messages Challenges Assets Core Values Defining Events