Project SHINE (Students Helping in the Naturalization of Elders), created in 1997 by Temple University’s Intergenerational Center, is a multi-faceted national initiative that promotes immigrant integration through English language acquisition, citizenship and workforce preparation, health literacy and civic participation.  It focuses specifically on the integration of older immigrants and refugees, a group that faces unique challenges yet is often overlooked. In 2009, the Center received a national AmeriCorps grant focused on health literacy/healthy aging that enabled us to expand our volunteer pool to include native and foreign born older adults as well as college students from diverse backgrounds. By fostering partnerships between immigrant communities, colleges/universities, and local aging networks, SHINE is able to mobilize volunteers representing diverse ages and cultures to improve immigrant elders’ health literacy skills and understanding of healthy aging practices. 

The Health Literacy Program addresses the English language and health literacy needs of older Immigrants and Refugees, giving them the skills and confidence to communicate effectively with health care providers and to access health services. AmeriCorps Members provide a healthy community by tutoring English, health workshops, screenings and various recreational activities such as exercise or knitting classes that strengthen social connections.  

Our initiative adds value to other immigrant integration efforts by specifically addressing the language and health literacy needs of elders, fostering cross-age, cross cultural relationships, and recognizing the contributions elders are making and can make to their communities. By focusing on learning as well as service for both elders and students, SHINE promotes the values of reciprocity and interdependence. The program has far exceeded our expectations in terms of the number of individuals and institutions involved, the quality of the relationships formed between students and elders, and the impact on community partners and colleges/universities.

Health literacy skills: Over 60% of learners reported increases in a range of health literacy skills (e.g. increased ability to explain their symptoms, understand the medical system, knowledge of healthy aging and nutrition).

Through funding from AmeriCorps, we have been able to engage native born and immigrant elders as well as students in our efforts. One of the older immigrants in our program stated, “When I first came to America, I only knew a couple letters.  I couldn't communicate with anybody. Now I have built a basic vocabulary that I can carry my daily life.  [SHINE] basically helped me to live in America."