As a co-founder and board member of Cathedral Park Performing Arts Collective (CPPAC), I am unabashedly proud of the work we do. I have had the privilege to be part of CPPAC’s growth from a small circle of students to hundreds of students of all ages throughout the North Portland community. Every term at our showcase, I get to witness their development as artists and, more importantly, as humans.
I think it is more crucial than ever to create opportunities for people of all ages to come together with open hearts and minds to listen to each other’s songs and stories. This is why I feel passionate about our Intergenerational Program.
At CPPAC, we value learning opportunities that cross generational divides; we believe in access to the arts for all ages. Intergenerational learning enriches our programs and allows us to strengthen the bonds that build stronger communities. We are working to bring our community together with a common language in music and performance.
CPPAC’s Intergenerational Program is a conduit for generations of learners to connect. I have served as a volunteer for this unique program at both Harvest Homes and Assumption Village. I saw folks of all ages sitting side by side, sharing songs and stories and a deeper sense of connection through the arts. It is a poignant reminder that the world extends beyond me and my small circle. There is a wealth of wisdom and wonder that comes from these meaningful exchanges between friends, both younger and older.
As a young boy, I remember my grandfather telling me stories, asking me questions, and letting me share my thoughts. We were engaged in that timeless exchange of wisdom and wonder, strength and vulnerability. I learned so much from him and now know he also learned from me.
There are elders—grandparents—all around us who would welcome a question to answer, a story to share, and a warm smile from a younger friend. That is why I support this program.
~Joseph Cirillo, Co-Founder & Board Director
Learn more about the Intergenerational Program: HERE