DEFINITIONS

​

What is an Intergenerational Space?​

​

An intergenerational space is a space where people across the age span can meet, interact, and develop relationships. These spaces play an essential role in facilitating and promoting community bonds. 

​

Intergenerational spaces and projects often arise out of a community desire or need. These spaces or programs are frequently community-driven, bottom-up, but also heavily rely on the support of local or federal governments, non-profits, and private foundations to provide funding and logistical help. The need for community spaces and programs that facilitate intergenerational community and connection is dire. We have grown increasingly isolated from one another, as social disconnection continues to rise. Social connection (the structure, function, and quality of one’s relationships with others) is essential for our individual health and well-being as well as the well-being of the greater community (Office of the Surgeon General, 2023). 

​

What is a Third Place?

 

A "third place" is a term coined by sociologist Ray Oldenburg to describe social environments separate from home (the "first place") and work (the "second place"). These are places where people gather informally to interact, such as cafés, public libraries, parks, community centers, and places of worship. 

 

Third spaces are essential for building community, fostering a sense of belonging, reducing loneliness, and promoting civic discourse. Third places allow us to meet our fellow neighbors and members of the community, challenge our preconceived notions and stereotypes about others, and build relationships.

​

 

What is Social Infrastructure?

 

Social infrastructure refers to the physical spaces, organizations, and institutions that support social interactions and community building. In his book "Palaces for the People" Sociologist Eric Klinenberg expounds on the importance of social infrastructure for promoting civic engagement and community interaction among individuals from diverse backgrounds. 

 

Social infrastructure refers to the physical spaces and institutions that foster connection and community. Social infrastructure is essential for building strong, resilient, and equitable communities. Well-designed and well-maintained social infrastructure (e.g., libraries, parks, community centers, and public transit) can help combat social isolation, bridge economic and racial divides, and strengthen democracy.

​

 

The Difference Between a Third Place and Social Infrastructure

 

Third Places are specific gathering spots where people socialize outside of home and work. They foster casual, spontaneous interaction and a sense of belonging. Examples include coffee shops, libraries, gyms, and religious spaces.

 

Social Infrastructure is the broader system of physical spaces, institutions, and services that enable social interaction and community life. It includes third places but also encompasses schools, public transit, healthcare facilities, and other essential public spaces.

 

Third places and social infrastructure are interconnected but distinct concepts. While third places refer to specific locations where people gather informally (outside of home and work), social infrastructure is the broader system of spaces, organizations, and services that support these social interactions.

 

Third places are individual sites of social gathering that often have a commercial component (but not always), while social infrastructure is the larger framework that supports community connections. A strong social infrastructure ensures that communities have enough third places where people can come together.

.