CatholicCare Diocese of Wollongong, in partnership with Catholic Education and local Catholic parishes, is transforming lives across generations through its award-winning program, Cross+Gen.
Recently honoured with the 2025 Award for Innovation and Contribution by the Australian Institute for Intergenerational Practice (AIIP), Cross+Gen fosters meaningful relationships between high school students and older people through practical, hands-on digital literacy sessions. These connections are helping to bridge the digital divide, reduce social isolation, and foster empathy and leadership skills among young people.
Since launching as a pilot in 2021, the program has grown from one school and three parishes to reach four schools and 15 parishes across the Illawarra, Macarthur, and Shoalhaven regions. Cross+Gen’s unique design, often hosted in school settings with hospitality students providing refreshments has created vibrant, welcoming spaces for learning, laughter, and companionship.
CatholicCare CEO Michael Austin said, “At the heart of Cross+Gen is the belief that every generation has something valuable to share. This program not only enhances digital literacy among older adults but also fosters deep, human connections that combat social isolation for both young and old.”
Bishop Brian Mascord of the Diocese of Wollongong praised the program as a powerful example of the Church’s mission in action: “Cross+Gen is a testament to how intergenerational programs can enrich lives and strengthen relationships. It highlights the vital role of our pastoral and community works in serving and uplifting people across all stages of life.”
Catholic Education Director Peter Hill added that the program reflects the values of Catholic schooling. “Cross+Gen allows students to live out the Gospel by serving others and building relationships across generations. It’s a shining example of our schools being beacons of hope in the community.”
The program has even earned a nickname from its participants: “the hum” – the sound of vibrant conversation, mutual learning, and joy that fills each session.
Cross+Gen is a compelling reminder of the Church’s capacity to innovate, connect, and build stronger communities through shared humanity.
Source: Media release from CatholicCare Wollongong